Stefan Johansen thrived at Fulham after moving from Celtic – and Liam Henderson could do the same if he follows in his footsteps to Craven Cottage.
It’s a testament to the strength of Celtic’s squad that they were able to get rid of a player as talented and influential as Stefan Johansen and become an even more fearsome outfit.
The Norwegian international was frequently one of Celtic’s standout players under his compatriot Ronny Deila. And, at just £2 million, Johansen proved a real snip for Championship side Fulham.
The Cottagers were arguably the most entertaining side outside the Premier League last season and were the joint-most prolific side in the division with 72 goals. While Sone Aluko, Tom Cairney and Ryan Sessegnon hogged the headlines, however, Johansen was something of an unsung hero.
A classy operator in the centre of the park, the 26-year-old tallied 11 goals and eight assists in a hugely impressive debut campaign.
And with another elegant Celtic midfielder seemingly certain to be on his way out of Parkhead sooner rather than later, should Fulham attempt to repeat the trick?
Following in Johansen’s footsteps
21-year-old Liam Henderson was once seen as one of the most talented young players to emerge from Celtic in many a year but, since Brendan Rodgers arrived in the summer of 2016, the youngster’s first-team prospects have diminished greatly.
Henderson has only featured in a few minutes of league action this season, his only appearance coming off the bench against Dundee in October.
A stylish and energetic midfielder, Henderson could find a good home at Fulham, however – particularly if star man Tom Cairney finally moves to Newcastle United in January with the Northern Echo repotting that they plan to revive their interest.
The success of Johansen should perhaps convince Fulham to take a punt on Henderson.
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