After finally rectifying their recent run of poor form, the last thing Celtic need is bad news. Recently, star striker Odsonne Edouard discussed his future and admitted that he would look for a move to a “higher league” when the time is right.

Whilst this could be a scenario Neil Lennon is prepared for, he will need to make sure he is well equipped to limit the damage caused by a potential Edouard exit. Plenty of clubs had their heads turned by him over the summer, with Aston Villa amongst those showing interest in his services.

Although the Frenchman is focused on finishing the season with the Hoops, he could be in search of pastures new next summer.

Lennon must replace Edouard

The 22-year-old has been a thorn in the side of many of Celtic’s opponents since he joined the Scottish outfit in 2018. His debut season saw him contribute 14 goals and six assists in 28 Premiership appearances, which he went on to smash the following campaign.

Edouard tallied a much-improved 21 goals and 12 assists in less appearances (27) than his maiden season during 2019/20. In seven league matches this time round he has netted four goals already and provided one assist. It will certainly be a huge loss to the club if he opts to leave next summer, which is a big possibility due to the fact his current contract expires in 2022. The Hoops may have their hands forced to cash in rather than run the risk of him leaving for free in two years’ time.

Should he leave Celtic Park, Lennon already has a man he can turn to. Long-time servant Leigh Griffiths could be the player to fill Edouard’s boots after he recently stated his desire to break into the top 20 highest scorers in Celtic’s history.

He is certainly on track to achieving this, despite recently getting on the wrong side of the manager. Lennon slammed Griffiths for being “overweight” and out of fitness and as a result he has been limited to just three substitute appearances in the Premiership so far this campaign.

However, it seems the gaffer’s comments and his drive to make history with the club is something Celtic will hugely benefit from in the potential absence of Edouard. Griffiths has already netted twice this season and boasts a total of 117 goals in total for the Hoops, so he knows how to score goals in Scotland.

Should crisis strike and Edouard is snapped up by another club, Lennon may already have his replacement ready to be deployed next season.

In other news, Celtic foolish not to sign Scott McTominay amid Neil Lennon crisis…