Ex-Celtic defender Kelvin Wilson says the Hoops should consider re-signing Gary Hooper on a free transfer.
The 35-year-old played in Scotland’s Masters Cup last weekend and, asked about the Englishman’s performances, Wilson claimed that the striker could be recruited as a “backup” option by manager Brendan Rodgers:
“I know you look at Celtic and the players they can bring in, but I wouldn’t be surprised with Gary. Hoops could be a backup player there and still score many goals for Celtic. I don’t understand why anyone would question it. That’s my opinion.”
“Gary knows the club inside out and the fans absolutely love him. It’s a no-brainer for me. He wouldn’t cost them anything, so yes! For sure he’d take that opportunity, he’d snatch your hand off for it.”
Needless to say, fans on X weren’t particularly convinced by Wilson’s remarks, with most feeling that Hooper is well past it:
Surely no
— RiffMan (@the_riff) September 10, 2023
Would he score goals? Id say naw
— HENRIK_KYOGO_LARSSON (@AnthnyMiller) September 11, 2023
I thought he was joking! In fact, I'm certain he was joking!
— KJMir (@KJamMir) September 10, 2023
Had his chance , chose the bright lights of NORWICH, then realised grass isn't always greener
— Michael (@Michael01310692) September 10, 2023
It's not April the 1st yet !
— jamsie cotter (@johnmack12345) September 10, 2023
Don’t get me wrong Hooper was a great wee player for us but he seen the bright lights and big city of the EPL and probably regrets it!But to think we should sign him is ridiculous 😆would hope we had a striker coming through our youth system that could score goals if needed!
— Chris 🍀 ✌🏴 (@ClarkGriswold81) September 10, 2023
Hooper’s time has come and gone
The English forward was outstanding during his first spell at Celtic Park, scoring 82 times in 138 appearances. However, his decision to leave for Norwich after three years left a bitter taste in the mouth.
Since leaving, Hooper has never been able to replicate the form he showed in Glasgow, and his last club was Gulf United, who play in the UAE second division.
Celtic have enough forwards as it is
While the Hoops would have preferred to bring in another striker before the transfer window closed, Kyogo Furuhashi and Oh Hyeon-gyu should provide sufficient cover.
The latter has recovered from a calf injury that kept him out for three games, and he came in the second half of the derby win against Rangers last time out.
