Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has announced that he plans to discuss the future of on-loan left-back Jeffrey Schlupp towards the end of the season.
The 32-year-old joined Celtic in the final stages of the winter transfer window and has made a strong impression since his arrival, delivering consistent performances whenever called upon.
Schlupp particularly shone in the second leg of Celtic’s Champions League knockout round playoff tie against Bayern Munich, where the Scottish side secured a 1-1 draw.
With his contract at parent club Crystal Palace set to expire this summer, Schlupp will become a free agent. Given his impressive displays in the green and white hoops, speculation has arisen about whether Celtic could secure him on a permanent deal.
Ahead of Celtic’s upcoming match against St Mirren, Rodgers revealed his intention to sit down with the Ghana international in the coming months to discuss his future: “I’ll have a chat with Jeffrey towards the latter part of the season,” he said.
“It was the case of him coming in and settling and getting to understand how he plays. I think we can all see he has that Premier League physicality and quality.
“He’s a guy that’s a top professional. That’s why he’s been in over a decade in the Premier League, because you have to look after yourself. You’ve got to have the right qualities, not only as a player but as a person.
“We knew what we were bringing in. I’m really happy for him because he’s settled into the group really well now. Now he has a feeling for how he plays and what the role is.”
“It gives us two really strong players to finish the season in that position.”
Meanwhile, Greg Taylor, who recently became a father for the first time, has yet to renew his contract with Celtic, which is set to expire at the end of the season.
Rodgers shared some heartfelt advice for Taylor following the birth of his daughter: “We’re delighted for him and Laura,” he said.
“They had their baby daughter, which was so nice for him.
“I was saying to him, my daughter turned 29 today herself and as soon as I spoke to Greg, it took me back to that moment. I said, you have to cherish every moment, because she’s 29 today and it’s just gone so fast.
“I said to him, make sure you enjoy it as well, because the time goes so fast as a parent. He’s obviously happy and the baby’s healthy and mum’s healthy, so it’s great news for him.”
