Chris Sutton: I was disappointed in key Celtic first-teamer
By Amir Mir
Chris Sutton has admitted that he has been “disappointed” with the Champions League performances of Celtic first-teamer Stuart Armstrong.
The TV pundits comments come after the midfielder was reported to be attracting the interest of Premier League clubs such as Everton and West Brom.
The Express reported that Rodgers is hoping that Armstrong will sign a new four-year deal with the Hoops as he enters the final year of his contract within a matter of weeks.
Despite Sutton being unimpressed with his displays in Europe’s biggest club competition, he does believe the 25-year-old has improved this term.
Speaking to BT Sports official Periscope account, Sutton explained which part of Armstrong’s game has changed.
“I think he has really improved this season,” Sutton told BT Sports. “I have to say in the Champions League, I was a little disappointed with some of his performances.
“He looks more athletic to me, more powerful and his confidence is up. Important Celtic hang onto their best players in the summer.”
Armstrong’s performances under Brendan Rodgers saw him earn a maiden call-up to the Scotland national squad.
He made his debut for his home country in May, helping them earn a valuable 1-0 win against Slovenia in a crucial World Cup qualifier as he assisted the only goal of the match.
In the Scottish Premiership this season, he has played 30 league matches for his team, scoring 14 goals from the middle of the park and supplying seven assists.
Armstrong played five Champions League games for his side earlier on in the campaign as they were knocked out of the group stages after recording only two points.
Their heaviest defeat came at the hands of La Liga giants Barcelona, who won the opening CL encounter 7-0 at the Nou Camp.
Nonetheless, he will be looking to take to the field once again for his team when they travel to Partick Thistle on Thursday night in a league encounter.
Armstrong found the back of the net during his last league match when he scored during the 3-1 win second-placed Aberdeen last Friday.
In other Celtic transfer news, Kiernan Tierney has delivered a to the point message about his future.
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