Oliver Birch 
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Celtic have bolstered their defensive options prior to next week’s deadline with the loan signing of Moritz Bauer from Stoke City, so should Anthony Ralston look to secure a loan deal elsewhere for this season?
The Hoops confirmed the announcement of Bauer on Tuesday afternoon, catching many by surprise, with the Austrian joining on an initial loan deal with Celtic having the option to sign him permanently at the end of the season.
Twitter:
#CelticFC is delighted to confirm the signing of right-back, Moritz Bauer on a season-long loan from @stokecity.… https://t.co/MBYu9e21md (@CelticFC)
While it appears to be a strong signing for Neil Lennon, does one of his forgotten men in Ralston need to pursue a loan move away this season?
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It would certainly appear a wise move for Ralston should he look to secure a loan move for the remainder of the season.
He has made just two first team appearances so far this season despite an injury to fellow right-back Hatem Abd Elhamed and a lack of defensive options, which surely indicates that he is not part of Lennon’s plans.
And following Bauer’s move to Parkhead, the 20-year-old will be falling further down the pecking order at a time when first team football will be crucial for his development.
His best option may be to push for an inclusion in the potential move for Greg Taylor, with Celtic said to be keen on offering Kilmarnock £1million plus players on loan as part of the deal.
