Celtic told to sanction Stephen Welsh exit after news – McAvennie
Frank McAvennie has told Celtic to send Stephen Welsh out on loan in January.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Hoops striker said Welsh needs to play every game to “toughen him up”.
As reported by the National (15 October), the 22-year-old was not included in the matchday squad to face Hibs after picking up a knock in training.
The centre-back has made just six appearances for the Celts so far this season.
According to FootballScotland (29 July), Ange Postecoglou’s side rejected a loan offer from Toulouse in the summer.
Postecoglou wanted to keep the defender around the first team.
But McAvennie suggested now could be the time to send the Scotland youth international on loan.
“I do not know if Welsh is the man for me,” he told Football Insider.
“I think he is a pro that comes in, but when he does he ball watches. John Kennedy is there, and Stephen McManus, two centre-halves, you would think they would teach him.
“I think he has got to learn the basics. He is not the biggest centre-half. If somebody comes running they will beat him all day long.
“He is only young so I think he could be a good player. I would not get rid of him but I would try and put him on loan. Toughen him up, let him play every game and see how he does.
“They have got [Carl] Starfelt, [Moritz] Jenz and [Cameron] Carter-Vickers who are in front of him. Welsh has not done much wrong but I would put him on loan.“
In other news, McAvennie has suggested David Turnbull facing extended spell on sidelines after Celtic injury update.