Former Celtic loanee Patrick Roberts plans to stay in Spain.
Patrick Roberts appears to have closed the door on a potential January return to Celtic.
The Manchester City winger has had a difficult loan spell at Spanish side Girona so far, only making his first start a fortnight ago.
This has led to speculation he could push for a new loan (via Sunday Mirror November 11 p68) – and Celtic would certainly be keen after losing Daniel Arzani to injury.
Spanish outlet TV3 now report Roberts has given Girona assurances that he will see out his loan until the end of the season.
Give him credit
This is understandably a disappointment for any Celtic fans who had begun to hope the club could bring Roberts back.
Roberts spent two-and-a-half seasons on loan at Celtic Park, multiple winning league and cup trophies.
It would have been easy for Roberts to push to leave Girona due to his lack of action and ask his agent to try and secure another loan to Celtic.
This would have defeated the option of heading to Spain in the first place, to give up halfway through.
He should have been aware heading to La Liga that it may not bring as instant success as his Celtic loans, and part of the challenge is to fight through it and be successful.
If it does not work out, he can say he has given it his all, and the possibility of a Celtic move, loan or permanent, can always be discussed in the summer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
