McNamara believes Celtic could look to loan O’Connor in January

Jackie McNamara believes Celtic could look to loan Lee O’Connor out in January given his lack of game time at Parkhead so far this season.

The versatile defender is yet to feature for Celtic since his move from Manchester United but made his international debut for the Republic of Ireland on Thursday night in a friendly against New Zealand.

And according to Football Insider, McNamara believes a loan move could be on the cards for O’Connor in January.

I’ve not really seen the boy play but they must rate him over in Ireland, putting him in the squad. [On first-team chances at Celtic] It depends on form and injuries, you’ve got a lot of players ahead of him just now.

Every game is absolutely crucial, he’s not making a lot of changes now is Neil. [On a potential loan move] It’s possible, aye. 

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A loan move for O’Connor could well benefit him, given how unlikely his first-team opportunities appear to be this season.

The 19-year-old did look impressive for Ireland against New Zealand, and that could be enough to convince Neil Lennon to give him an opportunity at some point this season.