Celtic’s recruitment and strategy has to be applauded.
It’s a big reason why Celtic are dominating in Scotland, whether Ange Postecoglou is in the dugout or Brendan Rodgers has returned.
Yes, there have been times when Celtic’s transfer recruitment has been questioned or fans have lacked the patience to wait for the young stars to develop.
Time and time again, it has all been proven to be correct, but not just with the unknown gems, such as Nicolas Kuhn.
The same happened this summer when Joe Hart retired and the club turned to Kasper Schmeichel.
James McFadden hails Kasper Schmeichel signing at Celtic
Schmeichel has won his first trophy as a Celtic player and is proving to be a top summer purchase from Rodgers and Co.
But James McFadden has claimed that ‘eyebrows were raised’ when Celtic brought in the 38-year-old on a free transfer, as he told Sky Sports Football (22/12/24 at 11:20 am).
The former Scotland midfielder highlighted Schmeichel’s age, but he feels all of that has now been put to bed.
I think that’s a fair point (Schmeichel is probably Celtic’s best all-round keeper in recent times),” agreed McFadden.
“A lot of eyebrows were raised when he was signed because he was the same age as Joe Hart, who was retiring. He felt like he had enough.
“I think Schmeichel coming in, it has given him a new lease of life. He is a big character. He is a big leader. But his all-round play. He makes big saves at big moments. He isn’t called into action too much, but it’s a sign of a good goalkeeper that you are ready. His distribution is excellent. Whether it’s off the ground, doing the side volley or throwing it out. His distribution is excellent and he has been a tremendous signing for Celtic.
Schmeichel’s future at Celtic
Celtic can trigger an extension in Schmeichel’s contract, according to Rodgers, but right now, his deal runs until the end of the season.
You suspect, given the impact he has made, then it would be logical to keep him on until, at least, the following campaign.
But, for McFadden, he feels that the Denmark international could have ‘three years’ left in him yet.
“For a goalkeeper, at 38 now, he is still young,” added McFadden. “He can still have another two or three years at a level where there is no diminishing of your talent or flexibility, as long as you have that hunger.
“I think, coming to a club like Celtic, where you have come in straight away, the fans have taken to him straight away, you are playing in the big games and he has given them that new lease of life.
“I bet he is loving every moment. Even going into training every single day. Thinking, ‘I am at a big club here, it’s a great opportunity for me to keep playing’. He looks like he has the hunger to continue for a while yet as well.
