Pundit Mark Guidi believes the Giakoumakis rumours doing the rounds during the World Cup are more about his position in the team than about money.
News came out last week the Celtic striker could leave in January after contract talks broke down. The reason given at the time was Giak was told his Celtic deal would be improved should the Hoops be successful.
During his first Celtic season, the Greek star helped the Hoops to the league title and the riches that come with qualifying for the Champions League. If a promise was made, and there was ambiguity surrounding what constitutes an improved deal then there could be some tension there. [RecordSport]
However, speaking on Go Radio, Guidi revealed it seems more to do with the striker playing backup to Kyogo more than anything else , “Well, first, there probably is a bit of frustration there.
“Because he’s had decent game time this season and when it comes to it, I think he is the backup striker to Kyogo.
“But the ball is in Celtic’s court with that one. Again it’s only if they received the right money that fits with them
“But I wouldn’t say he’s unhappy, a bit frustrated.
“And by the way, he’s a top striker, so he wants to go and be playing first-team football.
“If Kyogo had to go and get injured tomorrow and was ruled out for the rest of the season and team had to go with Giakoumakis, would any of the supporters be disappointed? No they wouldn’t.
“So that tells you about his credentials.
“But again, there’s been stuff surrounding Giakoumakis for maybe 10-12 days now and there tends to be something in it.
“That doesn’t mean to say that he’s definitely going to be sold in the next window but it’s probably one that we need to keep an eye on.”
Celtic have two very potent strikers on the domestic front. Both found it hard to find the back of the net in Europe and that will have been a point of frustration for both.
Giakoumakis and Kyogo have both started the season very well and contributed to a nine point gap the Hoops have created.
Ange has spoken about the collective squad is important and not just the starting XI. The intensity Celtic play at means many of the attackers will burn out before the end of a game, it’s about who steps into the positions when that happens.
When Ange first got here we had nothing on the bench, now our matchday squad is strong, even with a few injuries.
Should Giakoumakis be starting more games?
Not a team player more a glory hunter and individual and his proess at penalty kicks speaks volumes.
The tail doesn’t wag the dog. If he’s unhappy with Ange’s strategy he can leave.