'This is scandalous' - Celtic fans fume at Anthony Ralston report
Celtic fans are furious that the club plans to open contract talks with right-back Anthony Ralston this summer transfer window.
The 27-year-old’s contract is currently set to expire in 2027, and the Hoops are aiming to renew his deal as they look to avoid him leaving on a free, according to reports.
Ralston played 24 matches in the Scottish Premiership last season and was used as a back-up to Alistair Johnston once he returned from his injury.
However, many fans do not want to see Ralston’s stay at Celtic extended, with many viewing the defender as a “liability”.
The right-back has been part of the Hoops’ first-team for over 10 years after progressing through their academy.
This news comes after Celtic extended Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s contract until 2027 on Saturday.
Celtic fans do not think Anthony Ralston is good enough
Celtic fans’ hopes of a complete squad rebuild this summer have not come to fruition so far.
The club barely managed to win the Scottish Premiership title, and were extremely poor for large portions of the campaign.
Many players in the squad were deemed by supporters as not good enough, and there was a hope that they would be moved on this summer for more quality additions.
However, with no new players through the door yet this transfer window, fans were appalled by the Daily Record’s report that Ralston and Celtic are set to open talks over a new deal.
As a result, many fans took to X to protest the decision, as they believe that the defender is simply not good enough.
How did Ralston perform in the Scottish Premiership last season?
Despite Celtic fans’ opinions on Ralston, last season, he was not terrible in the Scottish Premiership.
According to Fotmob on 4 July, he averaged a passing completion of 87.5 per cent, 6.37 duels won, 2.01 aerial duels won, 1.87 fouls won, 2.08 tackles and 0.55 blocked shots per 90 minutes.
While there is no doubt that his attacking output need improving, defensively, he seems to be solid at the back.
However, it remains to be seen if Celtic and Ralston are able to agree on a new deal before his contract expires next year, as the club looks to lock down his long-term future.