'Huge problem' - Chris Sutton claims Celtic player is doing himself 'great deal of harm'
The 22-year-old was a standout performer for the Hoops in their title-winning campaign last term, but has struggled to replicate his best work in recent weeks, and has scored just twice since the beginning of October.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdThe Frenchman was heavily linked with a potential exit from Parkhead over the summer, with a number of European sides credited with holding an interest in the hitman, but Sutton has argued that his chances of securing a high profile move away from Glasgow will have suffered a significant blow this season.
Likewise, the ex-Celtic man singled out Kristoffer Ajer as another player who has fallen short after failing to seal a big money transfer earlier in the year.
The Norwegian centre-back was understood to be a long-term target for Serie A leaders AC Milan, with Celtic said to have put a £30 million price tag on the defender.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdBut speaking to the the Daily Record’s Celtic Podcast, Sutton argued that the pair have both undersold themselves so far this season.
“Edouard has a huge problem as he is so talented”, he said.
"He has built a reputation over the past couple of seasons where all Europe’s big clubs would have been looking at him and watching him really closely.
“The way he is playing at this moment in time, he’s doing himself a great deal of harm. Now everybody goes through peaks and troughs and I understand that. But this is pretty alarming.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad“We are seeing glimpses, but he’s not doing enough. I don’t know if he wants a move away or not, but he’s playing as if he doesn’t want to be there. Although you could level that at others
“If he wants to get his big move, he needs to start performing in a Celtic jersey. If he wants to get his career back on track, he needs to start livening up.
“If you watched Edouard the last couple of seasons, there are so many boxes you’d tick. But there is a situation now where people are maybe now going to look at him and question his attitude.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad“It’s unfair just to single Edouard out. Is it happening with Ajer? Linked with AC Milan with a £30 million fee? They wouldn’t be in double figures with performances this season.
“Edouard was linked with a lot of top clubs in England. Who would take him on form this season?
“Ajer has always had work to do. He’s a talented player, but he’s not a top European defender at this time. At this moment in time, he’s not a top defender in Scotland.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad“If you want your move away, the best way is performing on the pitch. Showing the right intensity and attitude week in and out.
“Do I feel that’s happening? No.
“In the history of football, there’s always players who don’t want to play for clubs, but they still give it their all while they are.
“The smart play is you are Edouard or a Kristoffer Ajer is play so well. Nine out of 10 every week. Be outstanding and big clubs will come in."