Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon has suggested the possibility of Fraser Forster returning to Parkhead for a third stint as the club faces the departure of current goalkeeper Joe Hart.
With Hart retiring, Celtic is actively searching for a new number one, and Forster, whose contract with Tottenham Hotspur is set to enter its last year, emerges as a potential candidate.
Forster has previously had two successful periods at Celtic, where he was instrumental in winning seven trophies and participating in Champions League matches. His performances during these spells left a lasting impression, particularly on Lennon, who managed him during those successful years.
Lennon expressed his thoughts on the matter on PLZ, stating, “So Joe (Hart) is leaving. Matt is leaving. Those have been the two most consistent players this season, so Celtic have a bit of work to do.”
He stressed the importance of a strong goalkeeper, saying, “They need a really top number one. That is where you build your best teams from. I know from my own time with Fraser Forster that it’s a precious commodity.”
The discussion about Forster’s potential return was brought up by Peter Martin, the host, who mentioned Forster’s contract status. Responding to this, Lennon added, “He might be available. I don’t know if he would come back a third time but it would be interesting.”
Celtic continues to be linked with various goalkeepers, including Alex McCarthy of Southampton and others such as Etienne Vaessen and Ugurcan Cakir. Scotland number 1 Angus Gunn has been mentioned, too.
I don’t think bringing back 36-year-old Fraser Forster to replace 37-year-old Joe Hart is a smart move, and Celtic should be focussing on other, more long-term, targets.
twice he chosen mediocre english clubs over celtic so he can rot there now
How does Lennon know for sure that Matt (O’Reilly) is leaving? He said it as though it’s a done deal. Many hope that Celtic can keep Matt for at least another year, he’s so central to the team. There’s a good chance he’ll be lured away this year, but it’s definitely not carved in stone the way Neil Lennon puts it. At least, I hope not.