'Taken some stick' - McNamara suggests Celtic giant ready to quit Parkhead as exit talks open

EXCLUSIVE

Jackie McNamara has suggested that Celtic defender Jack Hendry will be looking to leave the club in search of regular playing time as talks open over an immediate exit.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Football Insider, the former Bhoys and Scotland star says that the centre-back has fallen down the pecking order at Parkhead as he looks to play more often.

As revealed exclusively by Football Insider, the Hoops have opened talks with a number of clubs in Scotland over securing a permanent exit for the 24-year-old, although a loan move could also be on the cards.

McNamara says that the 6ft 3in giant came under criticism last season and that he has not recovered from that in his hunt for first-team football.

McNamara told Football Insider: "He took a bit of stick last season after the qualifier away in Greece and for a few games after that. He's obviously not played a lot and for the boy himself, he'll want to go and play at his age. 

"I'd imagine if someone wants to buy him in the short term, they'll sell him. It depends on how they see him long-term.

"Like any player, those who are sitting out, they'll want to play. I'd imagine he wants to play as much as he can."

Hendry has not featured in a single matchday squad this season, despite Neil Lennon seeing a number of his defenders having injury doubts, having struggled for game time during the 2018/19 campaign.

He played 15 times for the Hoops across all competitions, six of those coming in their ill-fated Champions League qualifying campaign.