Ange Postecoglou held talks with Paddy Roberts about a possible return to Paradise last summer, according to a report. The Athletic state that conversations were held only for the Australian to decide that he didn’t think the Englishman had the ability to buy into the manager’s philosophy.
Shortly thereafter, Postecoglou went for Portuguese winger Jota – whom he secured on a loan with an option to buy. Roberts has often been linked with a move back to Celtic but with just two goals since leaving in 2018, it is highly unlikely that Celtic would be keen on reigniting their long-standing interest in the pair. Kieran Devlin commented regarding the potential move ‘Postecoglou was not convinced the player had the single-mindedness he looks for.’
Jota is said to be the subject of Celtic’s interests for a permanent move from Benfica, such is the impact that the loan signing has had. Celtic have moved on from Roberts, even if he was an excellent part of a successful team.
Roberts scored 18 goals in 79 appearances in Scotland and was very impressive under Brendan Rodgers in the Invincible season. The move to Sunderland appears to offer him first-team football and the chance to regain confidence. The right-winger would have the chance to settle, something he hasn’t had the opportunity to do since leaving Celtic.
He had a successful two-and-a-half-year leaving with seven trophies and the adoration of the support. Roberts has business interests in Glasgow and if Celtic had made an offer, he would certainly have be keen on a return. Although, it is indicative of the way Roberts’ career has arched that Postecoglou maybe thought that another stint at Celtic may not be what he was needing.
