Celtic may have next Tom Rogic in their ranks after what I’ve seen – expert
Alex McLeish has suggested David Turnbull and Matt O’Reilly will fight it out to take Tom Rogic’s place in the Celtic starting XI next season.
The former Scotland manager, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the pair have “passed the test” to play for Celtic but still need to lift their games to the 29-year-old’s level.
As confirmed by Celtic earlier this month (14 May), Rogic is leaving Parkhead this summer after nine years with the club.
The attacking midfielder was a mainstay for Ange Postecoglou during the Australian manager’s first season in Glasgow.
With the experienced playmaker on the way, McLeish suggested either Turnbull or O’Reilly could step into his shoes.
McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “These guys have still got to get to Rogic’s level. We’ve seen they’re up and coming youngsters who have passed the test to be able to play for Celtic in the first instance.
“The next instance will be that higher level that Rogic reached. They’re both attacking midfielders so they obviously have to pitch in with the goals at the level Rogic has produced.
“That’s the task when you go to any club, that’s got to be your ambition. It doesn’t matter whether that’s a bottom team or a top team.
“You know Rangers and Celtic don’t allow players to stay there too long if they’re not producing.”
Turnbull, 22, played 44 times for Celtic this season, with 10 goals and eight assists to his name.
Meanwhile, O’Reilly made 20 appearances after joining from MK Dons in the January window.
In other news, Celtic expert claims ‘perfect’ Scott Brown replacement may already be at Parkhead.