Agbonlahor: Christie may have played last Celtic game after ‘strange’ reveal
Ryan Christie may have played his last game for Celtic with his contract set to expire in January, according to Gabby Agbonlahor.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the ex-Aston Villa and England forward insisted the Hoops will sell the 26-year-old in the summer if he does not commit to a new deal before the season starts.
The Mail on Sunday, as relayed by the Daily Record, report Christie’s contract is set to expire in January of 2022 rather than the summer of next year as widely reported.
The midfielder penned an extension with Celtic in November 2018 that means he is free to negotiate a pre-contract deal with foreign clubs over the summer.
He will be in the shop window over the break as he has just been named in Scotland’s squad for the European Championships.
Asked for his assessment of Christie’s situation, Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “It’s either sell him or get him to sign a new deal before the season starts.
“Otherwise it’s risky for Celtic, to lose him on a free in January. It will be an interesting one to keep your eye on.
“It’s strange, I’ve never heard of that. Normally it’s a full season contract that ends in June. Strange.
“It could work for him though.”
Christie missed just five games across all competitions for Celtic last season as they finished 25 points behind Rangers in the Scottish Premiership.
The Bhoys also suffered early exits in both domestic cup competitions and the Europa League and Champions League.
In other news, this is why Celtic are stalling on appointing Eddie Howe.