Davie Hay claims Hooper signing would be a ‘step backwards’
Former Celtic player and manager, Davie Hay, has been left unimpressed by the Hoops’ link to free agent Gary Hooper, claiming a move for the former Hoops forward would be a ‘step backwards’.
The 31-year-old has recently been released by Championship side Sheffield Wednesday and has reportedly attracted interest from Celtic over a possible return to Celtic Park.
Aston Villa and Fulham are also considering a move for the forward, who won four major honours during his first stint in Scotland.
However, former Hoops midfielder and boss Hay is unsure whether or not signing the free agent would be a good piece of business by the club.
Talking in his Glasgow Evening Times column, Hay, who won 10 major honours with Celtic, said:
Now, don’t get me wrong, he did really well for Celtic first time around and he was a prolific scorer for that team, but I think it might be a step backwards.
The top of the park is an area that Celtic definitely have to strengthen in the window, but whoever they do bring in over the summer, I would like to think they would be able to attract a better quality of player.
That’s meaning no disrespect to a striker who did well for Celtic when he was here before, and has always known where the net is throughout his career.
Whoever lands the full-time managerial position at Celtic Park may well play a key role in the Hoops’ interest in Hooper, with. Neil Lennon keen on bringing the player back to Scotland.
However, if Celtic decide on appointing a different manager, the club could well end their interest in Hooper.