Chris Sutton blasts ‘DUMB’ Celtic decision over £22m Arne Engels exit

The Hoops have made a substantial profit on the Belgian midfielder after West Ham completed a deal for the 22-year-old.

However, his immediate departure leaves Martin O’Neill without one of his key midfielders for Wednesday night’s crucial first leg against LASK at Celtic Park.

And while Sutton accepts £22m represents significant business for Celtic, the former Hoops striker cannot understand why Engels was allowed to leave on the eve of such an important European tie.

Writing in the Daily Record, Sutton said: “I can’t for the life of me work out why Celtic are allowing one of their best players to leave on the eve of one of the biggest games of the season.

“It’s just DUMB.

“There’s so much on the line, it’s unthinkable to go in to this match in a weaker position – but that’s what is going to happen with Engels gone.

“I get that it’s big money and I understand why West Ham want him now, with the Championship kicking off this weekend.

“But that’s not Celtic’s problem. They had to look after themselves.

“You only have to look at Engels’ display at Rugby Park at the weekend to see what he brings to Martin O’Neill’s team.

“He has an energy and drive that is hard to replace, he covers the entire pitch and brings some physicality they need.”