Celtic interim boss John Kennedy has confirmed that Leigh Griffiths could leave the club at the end of the season as there is a break-clause in the 30-year-old’s contract meaning he could be forced to find a new club in the summer. The striker has had a torrid season with very public fitness issues plaguing his participation as the club have struggled for goals and consistency.
Kennedy told the media conference that the club and player need open discussions before an additional year is decided. However, Kennedy insisted that it will remain in private.
“The situation, it’s like a lot of players’ contracts, the last year can sometimes be an optional year.
“Some players might sign a three-year contract with an optional year at the end of it and that’s where Leigh’s at with his.
“There’s an option to end it this year, but that’s one of those decisions that will have to be made between Leigh and the club.
“It will remain private until it’s decided but that’s something we just have to think about moving forward.”
Griffiths has scored five goals this season in eighteen appearances. The striker’s scoring record of 122 goals in 257 appearances represents an incredible return for the £800k paid to Wolves in 2014. The club need to make a decision on whether to retain Griffiths for another season or to allow him to leave for free.
In a recent poll on the issue, 49% of The Celtic Star readers believe that the club should retain Griffiths but 46% believe it is time to part ways with 6% undecided.