BRENDAN RODGERS has enough confidence in on-loan Jeffrey Schlupp to give him eight starts in his 11 appearances since arriving from Crystal Palace at the turn of the year.
The Celtic manager obviously knows the strengths of the powerhouse performer after both were together at Leicester City.
With extension talks with Greg Taylor breaking down and the Scotland international heading for the exit in June, Rodgers already has Kieran Tierney on his way back from Arsenal following a six-year absence.
However, the champions still require players for the left-hand side of the squad and the experienced German-born Ghaniain international has already proved he looks an ideal acquisition for the challenges the Hoops will face at home and abroad in the new season.
Told that Schlupp would consider an offer from the champions, Rodgers smiled: “I bet he would!
“He’s 32, coming to Celtic, and playing in Glasgow.
“But that’s something between now and the end of the season we’ll look at. I don’t want to commit too early!
“Jeff’s a great boy, I knew what I was getting, he’s a good type.
“More than a great guy, he can perform and there’s more to come from him.
“Obviously, we know we’ve got Kieran, who is high level, coming in the summer, but we know we’ll need to have someone else if Greg moves on.
“With Jeff, I think he’s got more to come.”
Rodgers, speaking to Celtic TV, continued: “Schlupp has come in to the team and it’s not that Greg wasn’t playing well.
“But in those Champions League games — away to Bayern Munich — he was outstanding.
“Yet he’s still getting to grips with being on the inside and going on the outside.
“He’s had a few months at it while Greg has had a few years at it and been superb.”
The Hoops gaffer added: “I’m really pleased with Jeff, it’s been a massive move for him, coming to a big club like this, with the huge expectation here.”
Schlupp has seven Premiership games and the possibility of two in the Scottish Cup to play before his temporary deal at Parkhead comes to an end.
He will also be out of terms with his London club and will be up for grabs as a free agent.
Celtic are in pole position to sign the player who has already been given the seal of approval by the fans.
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