Gary Mackay-Steven sees Celtic error over Rangers-bound John Souttar
Celtic made a mistake by not competing with Rangers for the signature of John Souttar, according to his Hearts teammate Gary Mackay-Steven.
The Tynecastle winger cannot understand why his former side did not show interest in the Scotland international who signed a pre-contract agreement at Ibrox, describing him as having “every attribute”.
He told Open Goal, as quoted by Football Scotland: “It’s surprising.
“He proved [in the win over St Johnstone], he just strolled the game and it was one of his better performances under all that scrutiny.
“Maybe it’s just the one that got away, I don’t know but he’s a top, top player.”
Music to fans ears
The thought of their latest signing causing regrets over at Celtic Park is something Gers fans will be delighted by.
And as an established international and Scottish Premiership performer he may well cause that in future.
The Light Blues will be especially pleased that they have secured his signature on a free transfer, increasing the questions as to why the Hoops were not also trying to get him to sign an agreement.
As it is, his arrival at Ibrox has been confirmed for the summer, and he may yet turn up this month if an agreement on a fee can be reached, although this may be difficult with The Scotsman reporting that it will take a “huge bid” to bring the move forward.
If the centre-back could be brought to Glasgow before January 31st, and he was able to feature in the huge Old Firm clash on February 2nd, he would have the chance to really make Ange Postecoglou wish things had gone differently.
As Mackay-Steven considered, it may be that Celtic had their attentions directed elsewhere with the January additions from Japan of Daizen Maeda, Yosuke Ideguchi and Reo Hatate, but it could be considered a dereliction of duty if Souttar goes on to become a star for Gers.
In other Rangers news, this club favourite aimed an amusing dig at the protagonists of Tuesday night’s controversy.