While the Celtic faithful are embracing the likelihood of incomings at Celtic Park this summer, it’s the nature of the game that many will also depart the Bhoys, and Stuart Armstrong has allegedly attracted the interest of several Premier League outfits. Yet, should Brendan Rodgers allow the 26-year-old midfielder to leave in the summer window?
As the Daily Record reports, a trio of Premier League teams (Southampton, Crystal Palace, and Brighton) are all interested in the services of Celtic’s Stuart Armstrong. The 26-year-old has established himself as an accomplished talent at the Scottish champions since joining from Dundee United. And, Chris Sutton has suggested that the Bhoys should sell Armstrong this window.
The Scottish midfielder was at the centre of attention last season following his contractual stand-off with the Bhoys; he eventually committed to a one-year extension with Celtic. Despite that renewal, it was evident that Armstrong was unwilling to commit his long-term future to the club, and with a year remaining on his contract, it does represent an appropriate time to sell the Scottish international.
One must also consider that Callum McGreggor’s impressive form, rendered Armstrong’s involvement somewhat ineffective, yet there’s no doubting the former’s capabilities and Brendan Rodgers’ role is to ensure that he strengths his side as opposed to weakening it. The prospective departure of the former Dundee United midfielder would deprive the Bhoys of depth and invaluable competition.
Despite not starring as a regular fixture in Rodgers’ starting eleven last season, Armstrong contributed towards eight league goals, and the season prior, he achieved a stunning total of 17 goals for the Bhoys. To have a midfielder who can continually contribute towards goals, either by scoring or assisting, is an indispensable asset, and one that Celtic should retain.
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