Celtic fans should ‘worry’ after ‘heartbreaking’ Henderson news – Scots pundit
Alan Hutton has claimed Celtic fans should “worry” about the lack of academy products breaking through with Ewan Henderson reportedly set to join Hibernian.
The former Rangers defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, admitted it can be “heartbreaking” and “devastating” for youth prospects not to see a pathway to first-team football.
As reported by Football Scotland on Monday (3 January), Henderson is set to sign a three-and-a-half-year deal with Hibs.
The Hoops academy product was reportedly at Hibernian’s training ground on Monday.
The report claims Celtic told Henderson he could leave this month.
Hutton suggested the sight of another homegrown talent being sold would be a concern for supporters.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I think it’s always a worry. As fans and as a club, you always want to see the academy doing well.
“You want to see young players coming through. They know what the club’s all about, they know what it feels like to play and support the team and just see the development.
“That’s what the academy is there for, to have a pathway to the first team. Throughout the years, Celtic and Rangers have had times where the odd player’s come through and then went missing for a long time.
“It is a worry they’re getting back to those years where it’s constant players coming in through the door. Foreign players or players on initial fees and there’s no opportunity for youngsters.
“So it can be heartbreaking, it can be devastating for the youth setup because you can’t see any way in.
“I even remember when I was coming through at one stage. I was thinking there is no way I’m going to make into this first team. Every transfer window there was a new player coming in.
“It can be disappointing, but I think ultimately if you’re good enough, you will have an opportunity. Then it’s up to the player.”
Henderson has played 11 times for Celtic.
He scored his first goal in the 3-2 win over Real Betis this season.
In other news, Celtic tipped to “chase down Rangers” after New Year’s Day statement.