Celtic - Maloney cancels Celtic talks

Celtic's Shaun Maloney has called-off contact talks, according to chief executive Peter Lawwell, and it looks increasingly likely he will leave the club during the January transfer window. Former boss Martin O'Neill is thought to be keen to take the 23-year-old to Villa Park, while Spurs are also rumoured to be interested - though a move to either of those teams would hardly guarantee European football, let alone Champions League action. Lawwell told the Daily Record: 'Shaun's representatives have indicated they wish to suspend discussions until January when Shaun will have the opportunity to look at options.

It would seem the reason for this is not financial. 'This is worrying. However, it should be clearly stated that Celtic are very keen to bring this matter to a successful conclusion.

That would be one which sees Shaun extend his contract with the club.' Maloney leaving the club would be a kick in the teeth for Strachan and all Celtic fans. Strachan has used him far more than Martin O'Neill did, and his belief helped Scotland international Maloney win both the SPFA Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards last season.

However, if Maloney does decide to leave, there is no point in trying to make him stay as every player who wears the Celtic jersey should do so for love of the club, and not cash.