Schlupp addition to strong Celtic squad ‘a little bit scary’ admits Alan Hutton

Many Celtic supporters were totally underwhelmed by the transfer window this winter and directed considerable frustration at the club online…

Jeffrey Schlupp of Celtic
Jeffrey Schlupp of Celtic arrives at the stadium prior to the match between Celtic and Dundee at Celtic Park on February 05, 2025. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

It was not what we as a fanbase nor what the manager hoped for after selling our star striker in Kyogo Furuhashi and not replacing him with like-for-like quality heading into the second part of the season.

Celtic may go back in for Kvistgaarden in the summer 

The club had been linked strongly with Mathias Kvistgaarden of Brondby but that one never came to fruition and despite the pre-contract signing of Kieran Tierney, we couldn’t bring him home earlier than the summer. We did add Jota to the ranks which has certainly been a massive plus point, as is evidenced with his last two appearances against Motherwell and Dundee.

Jeffrey Schlupp of Celtic
Jeffrey Schlupp of Celtic gets instructions from manager Brendan Rodgers before coming on for his debut Celtic v Dundee at Celtic Park, on 5 February 2025 Photo Stuart Wallace Shutterstock

Jeffrey Schlupp made his Celtic debut at Paradise last night

His creative spark has been a breath of fresh air and was so nostalgic for us all watching his phenomenal skill on the left-wing once again. Jota didn’t come alone this January though, as we secured the services of Crystal Palace’s Jeffrey Schlupp for the remainder of the season and Brendan Rodgers seemed happy enough with that one, adding he will add much needed pace and power, along with crucial experience.

Jeffrey made his Parkhead bow last night when he replaced Greg Taylor and whilst not looking outstanding, he did look very secure and comfortable straight from the off. Alan Hutton spoke of Schlupp on Monday night before the window closed and Schlupp was confirmed by the club, on the Scottish Football Social Club podcast and revealed that he has played against the loanee and that he will bring a wealth of experience and considerable quality to a team already packed with talent.

‘A little bit scary’

“Yeah, well even I’ve played against him,” the ex-Rangers man said. “That’s why I was asking you earlier what age he was. But only 32, with so much experience and to add that kind of quality to the squad that they’ve already got at this moment in time is a little bit scary. Yeah he can fill in a number of positions. Left-back, he can play further forward. I know Michael’s just spoke about Maeda and Jota and all these kind of guys.

Jeffrey Schlupp of Celtic
Jeffrey Schlupp of Celtic Celtic v Dundee, Celtic Park, 5 February 2025 Photo Stuart Wallace, Shutterstock

“So it’s probably not for there at this moment in time. But he can do a job in multiple positions. If they can get that over the line with the experience. I mean, look, they’re in a good place already. But looking to the likes of the Champions League and different things like that, it’s obviously a huge help. So, yeah, another good addition if they get it done.”

Paul Gillespie

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About Author

I'm a Garngad Bhoy through and through. My first ever Celtic game was a friendly against Italian side Parma at Celtic Park, in 2002. Currently a student of English Literature and Education at the University of Strathclyde for my sins. Favourite game would be a toss up between beating Manchester United with that Naka freekick, or the game against the Oldco when Hesselink scored in the dying seconds. I'm still convinced Cal Mac is wasted playing that far back.

1 Comment

  1. My ‘gut feeling’ about Schlutt, last night, was very positive. No real logic to it, just liked him and I think he could be a very important addition to see us over the line…and maybe beyond.