Former Celtic defender Jack Hendry made an appearance in the Champions League Last 16 last night as Club Brugge were beaten by Benfica. Hendry started the season on loan in the Serie A with Cremonese before being recalled by new boss Scott Parker.
The Celtic flop started the game and his side held firm but two goals from the Portuguese giants swung the tie in their favour. Joao Mario struck from the spot after Hendry’s foul resulted in a penalty whilst a late goal from David Neres all but secured Benfica’s progression.
Hendry represents a disappointment in the club’s transfer business. He arrived for a high fee from Dundee, which would have added extra pressure to the youngster. It might have been due to his turn of pace, height or insistence to pass the ball that Celtic signed him but in truth, he never really settled. Rodgers appeared content asking him to play at right-back as well as at the heart of defence but he struggled to break into the side with Ajer, Boyata and Simunovic ahead of him in the pecking order. The new season may have increased opportunities for Hendry but he struggled to justify the price tag – often copping flak when thrown in at the deep end by Rodgers. AEK Athens and Salzburg away act as examples of Hendry being put in the deep end and judged harshly after a few games.
Neil Lennon clearly didn’t fancy Hendry and offered him limited game time but injuries hampered his chances to really make a mark. It is ironic that the one season Hendry enjoyed a prolonged run in the team, Celtic’s defence was utterly decimated. Now, Hendry is looking to get his appearances up at International Level and, if he impresses, he will likely get a move to the Premier League.
