Shaun Maloney has confirmed Johnny Kenny remains firmly in Celtic’s plans despite recent speculation over the striker’s future.
The Irishman has endured a frustrating summer after injury problems prevented him from making a sustained impression during pre-season, leading to questions over where he stands in Martin O’Neill’s attacking pecking order.
Further uncertainty emerged following claims circulating online regarding Kenny’s squad number, while Bolton Wanderers have retained an interest in bringing the 23-year-old back to England.
Kenny enjoyed a productive loan spell with the League One outfit during the second half of last season, finding the net six times and leaving Bolton keen on another move.
However, Celtic appear to have closed the door on an immediate departure after discussions between Kenny and O’Neill over his position within the squad.
Maloney also dismissed the suggestion that the forward’s squad number offered any indication that he was on his way out of the Hoops.
Speaking via TCW, Maloney said: “At the moment, yeah, I think he spoke to Martin and he’s staying. He’s part of the squad. I think there was something online about the squad number, that was incorrect. So, yeah, Johnny’s part of the squad. I’d say he’s just about fit now. He hasn’t been fit during pre-season. He’s one of ours and he’s fighting to get minutes on the pitch.”
Kenny’s challenge now will be forcing his way into a considerably stronger-looking Celtic attack following the summer arrivals of Kasper Hogh and Camilo Duran.
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