Jack Hendry has said that he is ready to return to Celtic after a successful season with Oostende in Belgium. The 25-year-old has impressed in his year in the Juniper league, earning a recall to the Scotland team in time for the Euros. The central defender has watched on from the side as Celtic have suffered defensive calamity after defensive calamity in a season to forget for the club.
Speaking to Go Radio, Hendry says that he has struggled at Celtic but spells away mean that he backs himself to make an impact.
“I was brought to Celtic for a reason and it didn’t pan out the way I wanted, but sometimes that’s just football.
“I definitely feel I could have an impact at Celtic.
“Obviously it has been difficult to watch at times this season but football is football and it has worked out playing for Oostende against some really top teams and really top strikers. It’s really brought my development on a lot.”
Hendry arrived for a high fee, which would have added extra pressure to the youngster. Rodgers appeared content asking him to play at right back as well as at the heart of defence; however, he has struggled to justify the price tag – often copping flak when thrown in at the deep end by Rodgers. His successor, Neil Lennon, didn’t seem to fancy Hendry at all and reflecting on it, Hendry says it was difficult but helped bring him to where he is just now.
“It was difficult for me at Celtic and I didn’t get the game time I would have wanted so I had to take the opportunity to go elsewhere and prove my worth. Thankfully I’m doing that at the minute and I have to keep maintaining that.
“I have still got a year left at Celtic so I’m not going to turn down any opportunity that arises. Obviously it’s a bit unknown with Celtic and who the manager might be so it’s hard to comment on that.
“I hope things get sorted and they get back in a positive place, where they should be which is the number one team in Scotland.
“I’m hoping that gets done quick and everyone then can look forward to next season and look to have a positive impact.”
Oostende have offered Hendry the opportunity to get playing again, allowing him to prove himself to Celtic or potential suitors. Celtic need to make another decision on Hendry and it is likely that he will start the pre-season under new management before a decision is made on him.
Hendry joined in January 2018 from Dundee but has faced criticism from supporters for some shaky performances for the Scottish Champions. Brendan Rodgers signed Hendry for north of £2m but has failed to prove himself at Celtic Park, being shipped out on loan under Neil Lennon.
A new manager will be in charge next season and that could open the door to a return for Hendry, even the option of signing a new contract.
