Ange Postecoglou has given some insight into the situation of two summer signings who are yet to see much action in the Hoops.
Liam Shaw and Osaze Uroghide have hardly been seen since the start of the season and it’s left many wondering if the players are in the manager’s plans long term.
Ange made it clear both signings were brought in as developmental stars and were not brought in primed and ready for the first team.
Liam signed a pre-contract deal with the club early this year while Osaze came in suddenly in the summer.
Right now, both are in the Celtic blind spot; too old to play for the B team but not ready for the first.
Speaking to fan media, Ange delivered his thoughts on both players. You can watch the whole media conference on our YouTube channel.
“Osaze and Liam, it was difficult for them in the fact that sometimes when you bring in young players, and they were certainly brought in as development players, it’s much easier to bring them in when the team is settled.
“Obviously we brought them in at a time when a lot of new players were in the team and finding their way. Unfortunately, we’ve not been able to find a lot of game time for them.
“They’re working hard at training every day. They’re pushing themselves. I believe that even though they haven’t played they have improved as footballers. If you train every day with us you will improve.
“It’s about getting them the right opportunity now. That may be here, it may be a loan deal somewhere but we’ll make those decisions come January.
“We’ll sit down with the boys and see what the best way forward is. I believe they are improving, working hard and have a great attitude.
“Football is a funny thing. Sometimes opportunities come along when you least expect it and I say to the players consistently to be ready when it comes. Those two are.”
Ange has had to focus solely on first team matters and getting the team to play the way he wants. Fringe players will likely suffer in the short term but if we can continue our progress we have the base to give these lads a chance down the road.
There’s nothing worse coming into a first team that’s not playing well.
