John Hartson says it would be a “terrible decision” to allow another Celtic star to depart after Matt O’Riley.

Matt O’Riley has been grabbing the spotlight at Celtic with news of a bid from Atletico Madrid, but another name potentially on the move is highly-rated youngster Rocco Vata.

The 18-year-old showcased his talent by scoring his debut goal for Celtic over the weekend in their Scottish Cup match against Buckie Thistle, a moment observed by manager Brendan Rodgers.

Vata’s contract with the club is set to expire in the summer, making him eligible to engage in discussions with foreign clubs, with interest reportedly emerging from Italy this month.

John Hartson, speaking on Go Radio, emphasized the importance of retaining Vata, labeling it a “terrible decision” to let go of a promising talent at such a young age. Ideally, Vata would extend his contract with Celtic, allowing Rodgers the opportunity to nurture his abilities. However, the dynamics of such situations often hinge on external factors, with rival clubs potentially offering irresistible deals.

Regarding Vata’s future, Hartson stressed the risks associated with allowing a talented prospect to depart at such an early stage in his career.

While extending Vata’s contract seems like the ideal scenario, Hartson suggested that loaning him out to a club where he can gain valuable playing time and experience could also be beneficial. This approach would enable Vata to develop his skills and potentially return to Celtic as a more polished player, ready to compete for a spot in the first team.

Rodgers, echoing similar sentiments, emphasized the importance of patience with Vata’s development. While acknowledging the player’s potential, Rodgers emphasized that immediate readiness at the age of 18 is not a prerequisite for success at Celtic. Instead, he advocated for a gradual approach to Vata’s progression, allowing him time to mature and hone his skills.

The Celtic manager’s stance reflects a pragmatic approach to player development, prioritizing long-term growth over immediate results. While Vata possesses the potential to become a first-team regular in the future, Rodgers emphasized the need for patience and perseverance in his journey.

Rodgers’ assertion underscores the importance of a structured development pathway for young talents like Vata. Rather than rushing into first-team action, Vata is encouraged to focus on continuous improvement and gradual integration into the senior squad.

Ultimately, Vata’s future at Celtic hinges on a delicate balance between immediate opportunities and long-term development. While the club values his potential, decisions regarding his contract and playing time will be guided by a strategic approach aimed at maximizing his growth and contribution to the team.

In conclusion, while Vata’s future at Celtic remains uncertain, the club’s management and coaching staff are committed to providing him with the necessary support and guidance to fulfill his potential. Whether through extending his contract, securing a loan move, or gradual integration into the first team, Celtic remains dedicated to nurturing Vata’s talent and ensuring his long-term success at the club.