Reported Derby County taret Scott Sinclair has told the Mail on Sunday (15 December; page 118) while he isn’t pushing for a Celtic exit he wants to enjoy football again.
According to Football Insider, Derby are keen on the Celtic winger ahead of January.
The Rams had a reported initial interest in Sinclair in the summer. However, a deadline day move failed to materialise and Jamie Paterson was signed instead.
Speaking to reporters, Sinclair has suggested he could ultimately move on in January as he looks to return to playing regular first team football again.
I just want to play, everyone who knows me is aware of that. I haven’t really spoken to the manager about leaving. If it was my choice, I would love to stay and fight for a position. But this season has been tough. I want to play football. I want to enjoy my football again. It’s very difficult to have done what I’ve done over the last three years and then be pushed to the side. You come in every day and sometimes you are not with the team, not travelling to games and not involved.
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Sinclair, 30, is out of contract next season and has lost his way at Celtic.
He was an instrumental figure under former boss Brendan Rodgers. He topped the club’s scoring charts in his first season, and later helped the club secure a treble treble.
But under current manager Neil Lennon, he is out of the picture. Sinclair has made just two appearances this season for the Scottish Premiership champions.
Derby could offer him regular first team football at Pride Park.
The Rams have struggled for creativity all season. They have missed loan players Mason Mount and Harry Wilson, with the latter topping the scoring charts last term.
Derby have managed just 21 goals in 22 Championship games this season.
Jamie Paterson is expected to return to Bristol City in January, suggesting a new winger is a top priority for manager Phillip Cocu. Sinclair could fit the bill in the short-term.
Also see: Phillip Cocu’s latest comments could offer a clue to Derby’s January transfer business
Also see: Rowett admits he turned down a PL offer while in charge at Derby County