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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Liam Bryce

Andy Walker singles out Celtic star whose 'value is decreasing' and makes Rangers transfer prediction

Andy Walker reckons any potential incomings at Celtic could depend on players going the opposite way.

The pundit and former Celtic star believes boss Neil Lennon will be buoyed by last weekend's display against Rangers, despite going down 1-0 at Ibrox.

But he's unsure on the manager being able to substantially strengthen his squad in the coming weeks.

The 55-year-old singled out Olivier Ntcham as potentially being earmarked for sale but expressed worry the midfielder's value has decreased due to a lack of game-time.

Walker told Sky Sports : "I am sure Neil Lennon would have been happy with his players for the best part of an hour in last week's clash at Ibrox, but in a must-win game, a moment of madness saw Nir Bitton correctly sent off and as a result, they lost 1-0 and their title hopes have all but gone.

(Getty Images)

"On the plus side, the recent introduction of Ismaila Soro and David Turnbull has been encouraging for Celtic supporters and both have improved the energy levels and, more importantly, the goal threat for the team.

"How will they look after the transfer window?

"Like every other club, they will want to come out of the window stronger than before. Much will depend on offers for players like Olivier Ntcham, the midfielder's value decreasing given his lack of game time."

Meanwhile, Walker has predicted a quiet January transfer window at Rangers.

He expects Steven Gerrard will be content to maintain his squad's status quo as the Ibrox side sit pretty at the Premiership summit.

Record Sport exclusively revealed on Friday night the club have identified Oostende star Fashion Sakala as a potential option.

And it's understood Rangers have offered pre-contract terms to Charlton star Alfie Doughty.

But Walker reckons holding on to the team's top stars will be key to keeping Gerrard happy.

He said: "Rangers' astonishing run continues and a 19-point gap has now opened up at the top of the table after last weekend's 1-0 victory over Celtic.

"Celtic had the better of the game, but there's always admiration for a team under tremendous pressure who find a way to win.

"The truth is Rangers have found numerous ways to win games this season, you do not always have to be on top form.

"I doubt there will be much transfer business in or out at Ibrox, as long as they keep all their best players Steven Gerrard will be happy."

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