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Chris Sutton says 20-cap international is the ‘perfect player’ for Ange Postecoglou, amid Celtic exit links

Dom Toner

Sat 24 July 2021 7:15, UK Updated Sat 24 July 2021 8:45, UK

Chris Sutton believes that Celtic star Ryan Christie is the “perfect player” for manager Ange Postecoglou to work with, amid links of a potential exit.

Christie, 26, is an attacking playmaker that can play in central or wide positions further up the pitch.

The left-footer played 90 minutes in the first competitive game of the season, drawing 1-1 in the first leg of a Champions League qualifier against FC Midtjylland.

However, speculation suggests he could depart Parkhead imminently.

The claims Italian club Sampdoria are lining up a potential swoop for the 20-cap Scotland international. It is understood that Christie is “unlikely” to pen a new contract in Glasgow, so that could result in Celtic cashing in on his signature.

These reports come with just five months remaining on his Hoops contract.

Sutton, however, has stressed he’s the kind of player Postecoglou wants in his squad due to his energy. He’s desperate for him to pen a new deal.

“Ryan Christie doesn’t look like a man pushing to get out of Celtic. In fact, I’d say it’s the polar opposite,” Sutton wrote for the .

“Watching him against Midtjylland in midweek I saw a player with total commitment to the club and the ability to play a vital part in the future. Celtic should be going to him with a contract offer right now that he simply can’t turn down.

“Christie is an international player who can cover a variety of positions, he scores goals, he creates them and he plays with a high intensity.

“Forgive me if I’m wrong but that sounds like a perfect player for Ange Postecoglou.”

Good news IF Celtic can keep Ryan Christie

Celtic’s squad already looks thin on the ground, but it would be a boost to keep Christie.

As it stands, the creator will be leaving either this window or at the end of December.

He’s someone that on his day can provide a real spark in the Bhoys XI, something he showed in games last season. The attacker ended up with seven goals and 15 assists across all competitions.

If he does leave, it’s another big role Postecoglou will need to fill.

In other news, Report: Liverpool will have to pay more than Sadio Mane transfer for 24-year-old