After a slow start, Celtic have splashed the cash in recent weeks and one signing that has excited a Hoops legend is David Turnbull.
Speaking to Football Insider, Frank McAvennie claims that the former Motherwell midfielder could step into Scott Brown’s role when the skipper eventually retires.
So what has McAvennie said?
When asked about the Scotland Under-21 international’s short move into the east end of the city, he said;
“Lenny went for Turnbull because it was too good of a deal to miss him,”
“He can walk into the team now but he is also one for the future. I said that this year is not one for prospects, they need players that can go right into the team – Turnbull falls into both categories. He could walk into that team and they would not be weakened in any way, shape or form.
“Turnbull will be there when Scott Brown finishes and maybe he will take over from him. He is a great option to have and they could not pass that one by.”
So is McAvennie correct?
Absolutely, but not in the way that you might think. The addition of Turnbull to the Celtic midfield is a no brainer and one that sees the spine of Neil Lennon’s side sorted for the foreseeable future.
The versatility of Callum McGregor is the key component in whatever shape the gaffer wants to play, and it will be he, not Turnbull, that replaces the role of Brown when he eventually takes his inevitable position on the coaching staff at Lennoxtown.
Should Lennon be phasing out Scott Brown's playing time?
Yes
No
A midfield three of McGregor, Turnbull and Ryan Christie is young, dynamic, athletic and packed with goals and creativity as well as having the best interests of the club at heart, one that – hopefully – we will be able to enjoy for years to come.