The Transfer Window May Be Closed, But Brendan Rodgers Can Still Bolster Celtic’s Defence
The transfer window may have slammed shut, but that doesn’t mean Brendan Rodgers can’t strengthen his Celtic squad this month. The Celtic boss has already made some shrewd signings this summer, adding seven new faces to his squad. However, there is still one player who could add depth and quality to the Celtic first-team – John Egan.
John Egan: The Experienced Defender
Republic of Ireland defender John Egan is available for free after being released by Sheffield United this summer. The 31-year-old has an impressive 36 caps for his country and has been a regular starter in their last 25 games, even captaining them on seven occasions. A cruciate knee ligament injury cut short his season last year, but he has now made a full recovery and is looking for a new club.
Egan’s Experience and Versatility
With 438 domestic career appearances under his belt, Egan brings a wealth of experience to any team. He has played for various clubs, including Gillingham, Brentford, and Bradford, and has helped Sheffield United gain promotion to the English Premier League twice. His versatility is also an asset, as he can play on both sides of central defense.
Familiarity with Celtic Players
Egan already has a mutual understanding with Celtic players Auston Trusty and Liam Scales, having played with them previously. This familiarity could make his transition to the Celtic team seamless, allowing him to hit the ground running.
West Ham Interest
However, Celtic must act quickly, as English Premier League outfit West Ham is reportedly weighing up a move for the experienced defender. The fact that a top-flight club sees Egan as a viable option shows that he is still highly rated and can do a job at the very highest level.
Egan’s Admiration for Celtic
In 2020, Egan spoke about Shane Duffy’s move to Celtic, saying, “Celtic is a huge club, especially for Irish players, it’s probably the most supported club around, so I think it’s great for him.” He also expressed his admiration for the club, stating, “I’d always keep an eye on Celtic, and I know Shane a long time since we played underage for Ireland.”
Conclusion
John Egan would be an excellent addition to the Celtic squad, bringing experience, versatility, and a winning mentality. With his familiarity with Celtic players and admiration for the club, he could slot in seamlessly. However, Celtic must act quickly, as West Ham’s interest in Egan is a reminder that he is still a highly sought-after player.