Ryan Christie holds talks over new Celtic contract, according to report

I think it is fair to say that Ryan Christie has found the form that we all know he can produce under new manager Ange Postecoglou.

Often the scapegoat for Hoops’ fans over the last twelve months, Christie received torrents of jeers online for his admittedly substandard performances in the famous green and white last season. Shots flying into Row Z, anonymous appearances and a lack of tactical direction were the main reasons that he was subject to being the whipping boy – however, he looks a man reborn under Ange Postecoglou.

The midfielder, 26, has started well in the left-winger role he has undertaken under the Aussie; having got an assist for Liel Abada in the Champions League qualifier against FC Midtjylland and a goal himself in the 6-2 drubbing by West Ham – picking up two man of the match awards in the process – it is clear to see that he is much more suited to the style of play Ange has adopted at Paradise. Compare Ange’s football with Brendan Rodgers’ style of play – isn’t it much easier now to see why Christie struggled so much under Neil Lennon?

This is why, reportedly, Celtic have been so impressed with the Inverness-born midfielder that talks are underway to extend his contract.

With just six months left on Christie’s deal, his availability on a free from Friday has attracted the interests of Norwich City and Burnley. The said clubs could offer him a much improved contract financially than the one he has at Celtic – however, there is no lure of European football, and the styles in play differ vastly from what Postecoglou plays – and we all know how Christie plays under boring tactical direction.

It wouldn’t surprise me to see Christie leave – indeed, if I was a gambling man then I would bank on him leaving – however, with a much improved tactical outlook which suits Christie to a tee, then hopefully it can convince him to stay.