Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that left-back Greg Taylor is likely to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season, as the Hoops prepare for a summer of personnel changes.
Speaking after Celtic's commanding 3-0 victory over Hearts in the Scottish Premiership, where Taylor remained an unused substitute for the fourth consecutive game, Rodgers gave a candid assessment of the situation surrounding the Scottish international’s future.
Rodgers revealed that it was "probably more that he will move on than stay," admitting that it was a scenario he had seen unfold many times before.
"It's a big shame for me as he's someone that I really like. I love him as a person but I love his game because I think his game is suited to how we work," Rodgers said.
While confirming that Taylor’s potential departure wasn’t motivated by financial factors, Rodgers acknowledged the player’s desire for more game time.
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"It's not financial, it's not anything, but I respect his position because he will want to feel that he's playing every single week," he added.
With Kieran Tierney set to return to Celtic Park from Arsenal in the summer, it seems that Taylor’s role will be further limited, leading to the expectation that he will seek a move away to secure regular first-team football.
Rodgers, however, reassured fans that regardless of who occupies the left-back position next season, they will "still play a lot of games."
In addition to the expected return of Tierney, Rodgers also hinted at the possibility of making Jeffrey Schlupp's loan move from Crystal Palace permanent. The versatile midfielder has impressed since joining the club, and with the summer transfer window fast approaching, Celtic could look to extend Schlupp’s stay in Glasgow.
