OPINION
With just 17 appearances for Celtic in three-and-a-half years there will not be too many tears shed when Scott Allan eventually departs Parkhead this summer.
The 27-year-old is finally moving away from the Hoops on a permanent basis after no less than three different spells out on loan, with Hibernian, the club Celtic snapped his signing up from back in 2015 and where he spent time on loan last season, confirming he is heading back in the summer after signing a pre-contract agreement.
Allan, a central midfielder, has had plenty of competition in trying to forge a career in the middle of the park with the Bhoys, with the likes of Scott Brown, Stuart Armstrong and Nir Bitton just three players who have kept him out the side.
However, should questions be asked over why he never made the grade? Former teammate Kelvin Wilson seems to think so, raving over the talents of the former Scotland under-21 star.
He told the Scottish Sun: “I was interested to see Scott Allan going to Hibs because technically, he’s one of the best I ever played with.
“We were at Rotherham together and when Allan really puts his mind to it he can win you a game. If he does that more often he isn’t too old to kick on and have a top career.
“I know he didn’t play much for Celtic, but sometimes the club can be overwhelming for players. I doubt that’s the case with Scotty, because knowing him, he’s not a shy lad.”
There is definitely a lack of technical ability in the middle of the pitch right now at Celtic Park, Brown and Ntcham using their physical abilities rather than their skill on the ball – so why has Allan struggled so much?
The finger of blame needs to be pointed towards Brendan Rodgers, the manager quite clearly preferring a robustness in the centre rather than technical talent and Allan has suffered as a result.
The midfielder could well have been a success had he been given the chance but his opportunities were limited and as such has failed to make any sort of a mark.