It has long been suggested that Celtic make the move South of the border to play their club football in England. Such a notion has intrigued yet divided many a fan of the Scottish champions.
There are positives and negatives to the debate, whether it be that a move would drive up the global image of the club and thus revenue or that it could cause a drastic decline in the Scottish game. Further, many also argue that the Hoops wouldn’t even be able to compete in England; however, Hearts defender Toby Sibbick recently shut down this viewpoint.
Speaking to Edinburgh Evening News, he said:
“If, let’s say Celtic, Rangers or even us [Hearts] to an extent, were to face some Championship teams, I do think we would give them a good game and beat them. Down south, I think they are still a bit stuck in that mindframe. If you actually watch the games and do some education on yourself, you will realise that there is quality up here.”
Recently after playing in back-to-back defeats to Celtic for Hearts, Sibbick clearly understands and recognises the quality of the Scottish champions. Moreover, because he turned out in England for clubs such as Barnsley and AFC Wimbledon, the 24-year-old knows the standard down south and has utilised this knowledge to come to the conclusion that Celtic could more than put up a fight in English football.
For a long while, Celtic fans, managers and players alike have all held the same belief as Sibbick however, in the coming years, at least, it is unlikely the Hoops will be able to practice what was preached by the Hearts man.
