Gabby Agbonlahor reckons Celtic duo Matt O'Riley and Jota still have a long way to go before landing moves to the EPL or another top league.
Ange Postecoglou snapped up Jota on a season-long loan from Benfica during his first summer transfer window before shelling out big money to make the move for the fans' favourite permanent this season. His investment has been rewarded with some eye-catching displays alongside his four goals and four assists in just seven games this season.
O'Riley was plucked from the lower leagues in England from MK Dons and he has already been linked with huge top six sides south of the border including Manchester United and Arsenal following a stunning short period in Glasgow. Both men are key figures in Celtic's squad under Postecoglou as they bid to retain the Premiership crown they won from Rangers last season and make a splash in the Champions League following a promising attacking display against Real Madrid on matchday one.
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Despite all the hype and clear talent on show from both, ex-Aston Villa striker and talkSPORT pundit Agbonlahor still believes they've got a lot to prove before making the jump to the top leagues.
Asked whether he thought EPL sides would be keen on the Celtic duo, he told Football Insider : "No, I don’t. They’re decent players but I still think they’ve got a lot to prove before they play in a top, top league.
“Hopefully in the future, it can happen but I still feel it’s early days. The Premier League is a tough elite league where some players come and struggle.
“I wouldn’t rush players into it, to be honest. O’Riley’s been there eight months, you give them more time and not rush them into it.”
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