Celtic youngster could be promoted after unexpected exit

Alexandro Bernabei has completed an exit from Celtic on loan. A temporary move to Brazilian side SC Internacional came somewhat out of the blue but considering his struggles at Parkhead, the Argentine's departure should not come as a complete shock. And it could open the door for another of the club's youngsters to step up to the plate.

Bernabei has not lived up to expectations since joining Celtic. Signed for a transfer fee believed to be around £3.75 million from Argentinian side Lanus in the summer of 2022, the player hasn't shown real quality or consistency. He isn't that great a defender and can be inconsistent on the ball going forward.

A permanent exit to follow up on this loan move would seem likely. What is unexpected though is that it happened when the transfer window is closed and a replacement cannot be signed. Many fans expected more competition at left-back to be brought in in January but instead, options have further decreased there.

Any cover for Taylor will have to be from within. There are three options. Anthony Ralston playing at left-back, something he did quite often under the management of Ange Postecoglou. Liam Scales moving from centre-back to the full-back position. Or a player moving up from the B team. 

Opportunity for Celtic player to step up

Could it be a step up for Mitchel Frame or Magnus MacKenzie? The youngsters have been playing on the left flank for the B Team in the Lowland League. Both are 18 years of age and can play at left-back. They are also Scotland youth internationals.

Frame might have a slight edge on MacKenzie for the position right now. The former has already made his debut for the Hoops at the senior level.

Either could be an option for Rodgers. But with the team struggling, it is much more likely that the manager will rely on someone more experienced like Ralston or Scales.