Celtic

Celtic: John McGinley wants Nir Bitton to leave the Bhoys

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Image for Celtic: John McGinley wants Nir Bitton to leave the Bhoys

Celtic writer John McGinley believes Nir Bitton’s exit from Parkhead would be a good thing for the Bhoys amidst rumours he could leave the club.

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Interesting first question, how many Celtic fans were inside Ibrox?

Bitton has spent the last nine years in Glasgow, making 270 appearances in all competitions. However, there have been suggested he could leave the club this summer, with it being suggested he could even make a return to his homeland.

Writing on Twitter, McGinley appeared to be pleased with the reports, saying, “Bitton leaving Celtic this summer would be a good sign. No harm to him – he’s actually done pretty well under Ange – if we’re talking ‘next level’ then we need room for others to make their mark.

“Bitton made 37 apps this season which could be used by Ideguchi or a new signing.”

TIF Thoughts on Bitton

The 30-year-old has been a bit-part player this term, starting just 11 Scottish Premiership games. He has found himself in a similar position across the past few seasons, and it seems the end of the campaign would be the best time for all involved to part ways.

He currently ranks as the 24th rated player for Celtic this season, is ninth for tackles per game, 13th for interceptions, eighth for clearances and sixth for blocks (WhoScored), so he’s not exactly setting things alight.

Should Bitton leave in the summer?

Yes

Yes

No

No

Celtic need just a point from either of their last two league matches to confirm their status as league champions. Finishing top of the table would also secure a place in the Champions League group stages, which would see an increase in revenue. The quality, though, will be at a far higher level than anything they experience domestically, meaning talented players must be brought in if they want to compete. Replacing Bitton, therefore, would make perfect sense.

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