Celtic pair David Turnbull and Matt O'Riley can be the heir apparent to Tom Rogic at Parkhead, according to former Hoops manager Alex McLeish.
The Lowdown: Rogic departing Hoops
Rogic has enjoyed a wonderful Celtic career, winning seven Scottish Premiership titles, among other trophies, but his time at the club is coming to an end.
The Australian will depart during the summer in order to enjoy a fresh challenge, bringing an end to his nine-year stay at Parkhead.
Rogic could leave a big void in the middle of the park, given his influence in the final third in particular, and it could be that youngsters Turnbull and O'Riley step up to the plate.
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The Latest: McLeish confident over Hoops pair
Speaking to Football Insider, McLeish talked up the duo's chances of kicking on and taking their opportunity from next season onwards:
"These guys have still got to get to Rogic’s level. We’ve seen they’re up and coming youngsters who have passed the test to be able to play for Celtic in the first instance.
"The next instance will be that higher level that Rogic reached. They’re both attacking midfielders so they obviously have to pitch in with the goals at the level Rogic has produced.
"That’s the task when you go to any club, that’s got to be your ambition. It doesn’t matter whether that’s a bottom team or a top team.
"You know Rangers and Celtic don’t allow players to stay there too long if they’re not producing."
The Verdict: Huge opportunity for both
Sometimes, the exit of a great player can pave the way for a youngster to make their mark, and both Turnbull and O'Riley should be seeing this as a wonderful chance.
The former is arguably the most exciting prospect of the two, having been hailed as 'phenomenal' by Alan Hutton, also scoring and assisting five times apiece in the league this season before injuries took their toll.
Meanwhile, O'Riley has shone on loan at League One side MK Dons in 2021/22, enjoying 12 goal contributions (seven goals and five assists), and his return to Celtic is an exciting one.
In other news, a journalist has given a key Celtic transfer update. Read more here.