It is not often that Celtic players get linked with clubs like Inter Milan. But then, the likes of Matt O'Riley do not come around often either. The Danish international has been absolutely world-class this season. showing his quality not just in the Premiership but in the Champions League as well, providing assists against Atletico Madrid, Lazio and Feyenoord.
Unfortunately, nobody else has been able to perform at that level, which is the reason why Celtic find themselves in the position that they do right now. And rumours have emerged that clubs are eyeing a move for O'Riley in January.
The last thing Celtic need right now is O'Riley leaving. He has been Celtic's best performer this season by quite some distance.
But with clubs like Inter Milan, West Ham United and Newcastle United being linked with him, there is always the chance that O'Riley could leave. One can only hope that nothing transpires in January.
Celtic boss reacts to O'Riley to Inter Milan rumour
Brendan Rodgers seems to be quite relaxed about the entire situation though. As reported by Football Scotland, speaking hours after Inter Milan's interest in the midfielder was reported, the Celtic manager said:
"I don't have any fears over any of the players.
"I'm delighted for Matt, he's made a fantastic step forward this season as a Celtic player and in his career. That shows the focus and mentality from training he's taking into games.
"He will always attract the interest of teams. But I don't have any fear, he's a good guy who works very, very hard. When you do that, you're always going to have interest."
It is true that someone like O'Riley is always going to draw the interest of clubs. Even while playing under the management of Ange Postecoglou, clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Liverpool and Manchester United were linked with the midfielder. He has taken his game up several levels since then to be very honest.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for O'Riley. Let's just hope that he is at Celtic by the time the January transfer window comes to an end. If the club are to get their season back on track, they will certainly need their best performer to remain at Parkhead for the second half of the campaign.