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Chris Sutton delivers verdict on new signing Diego Laxalt, worried for Celtic player

Will Butcher

Wed 7 October 2020 10:21, UK Updated Wed 7 October 2020 10:45, UK

that he believes Diego Laxalt can become a good signing for Celtic this summer – but the Hoops legend has stated he feels sorry for current left-back Greg Taylor, claiming the latter is not “the answer”.

Laxalt, 27, completed a season-long loan move from AC Milan to Celtic on deadline day. He had clocked up just 35 appearances for Milan in two seasons, making him available for a loan and Celtic have pounced to strenghthen their left flank.

The Uruguay international – who becomes the first of his country to play for Celtic – offers cover at left-back on the left wing. Italian website claim that a fee of £9million has been included to make a deal permanent.

Sutton was asked about Celtic’s newest signing and is confident that if he makes a good start, Laxalt can be a good addition to Neil Lennon’s side. But Sutton is concerned for Taylor, and does not think that the left-back is the long-term solution.

“Laxalt has come in with a big reputation,”. “Celtic certainly needed to do something down the left-hand side. We have been crying out for weeks. I feel for Greg Taylor but he’s not the answer. If Laxalt hits the ground running, then that will be a really good piece of business.”

TBR’s view – Laxalt will be Celtic’s best since Tierney

Kieran Tierney has not yet been replaced. Neil Lennon has tried Boli Bolingoli, who flopped in his first season and has since been shipped out on loan to Istanbul Basaksehir after disregarding guidelines to travel to Spain.

Callum McGregor has been used out of position on the left of the defence, while Jonny Hayes was used as a left wing-back in a three-man defence. None have been able to match the ability and impact of Arsenal defender Tierney, since his exit.

Now, Celtic have a player that can deliver a similar impact. Laxalt is a proper player, with versatility, pace, and an end product. He adds flair, aggression and proper quality to a side badly in need of it.