Celtic to assess star's future at the end of the season as expected 'late decision' sparks summer deja vu

Celtic will reportedly make another ‘late decision’ on the future of midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain at the end of the season.

The former Arsenal and Liverpool man joined Celtic as a free agent in February on a six-month contract with the option to extend another year. After a successful short-term spell, the Hoops opted to trigger this at this last minute in July. If he’s stay at Celtic beyond the summer, reports suggest a similar ‘late decision’ will be made.

The 33-year old Champions League winner has been an experience head in the middle of the park for Celtic. Manager Martin O’Neill has a fairly settled midfield three of Callum McGregor, Mika Baur and Benjamin Nygren, however he has never understated the importance of having a player of Oxlade-Chamberlain’s stature behind the scenes.

Celtic to make another ‘late decision’ on Oxlade Chamberlain’s future

So far, the Englishman has only made six appearances this season, however this number is expected to increase significantly over the next few months, when squad rotation will be necessary. Football Insider report that Celtic will make another late call on his future depending on the success of the current campaign.

The claim: “Celtic won't make a decision on the future of midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain until the end of the season. The ball is in the 33-year-old's court when it comes to his long-term future, with the Bhoys willing to hand out a new deal if he can continue to prove his worth. Sources say that the club intend to make a late decision on the veteran's future once again, after triggering a last-minute extension for him in the summer.”

What did Oxlade-Chamberlain say after extending his contract in July?

Oxlade-Chamberlain made 12 appearances last season Celtic’s dramatic double-winning campaign. The veteran notably scored the winner on his debut after coming on as a substitute against Livingston. After a successful short-term spell, when the clause to extend his contract was triggered on July 4, the midfielder was over the moon.

He said: “I’m delighted to be staying at Celtic for another year. It was an incredible time last season and to be part of that success in winning the league and Scottish Cup was so special. I’m really excited to be back and I’m looking forward to meeting up with the boys and getting to work ahead of what will hopefully be another successful season."

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