Chris Sutton Labels Jeffrey Schlupp as Celtic’s Weakness Despite Thumping Win Over St. Johnston
Celtic delivered a commanding 5-0 victory over St. Johnstone at Celtic Park on April 20, 2025, solidifying their dominance in the Scottish Premiership. Goals from Kyogo Furuhashi, Reo Hatate, and a brace from Adam Idah showcased the Hoops’ attacking prowess, but former Celtic star Chris Sutton singled out one player as a glaring weakness: Jeffrey Schlupp. Despite the comprehensive win, Sutton’s critique of Schlupp’s performance has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.
Speaking on Sky Sports post-match, Sutton didn’t mince words: “Schlupp was a liability out there. Celtic were brilliant, but he’s not at the level required for a title-chasing side.” The 32-year-old midfielder, deployed on the left of Celtic’s midfield, struggled to keep pace with St. Johnstone’s counter-attacks. His positioning was repeatedly exposed, particularly in the first half, when Saints’ Adama Sidibeh nearly capitalized on Schlupp’s failure to track back. A wayward pass also gifted St. Johnstone a rare chance, though Joe Hart’s sharp save preserved Celtic’s clean sheet.
Schlupp’s inclusion was meant to add experience and versatility, but his performance drew scrutiny against a St. Johnstone side fighting relegation. While Celtic’s attacking quartet of Furuhashi, Hatate, Idah, and Nicolas Kühn ran riot, Schlupp’s lack of dynamism was noticeable. He completed only 78% of his passes and lost possession eight times, stats that underline Sutton’s concerns. Brendan Rodgers hooked him on the hour mark for James Forrest, who injected fresh energy into the side.
Sutton’s comments echo growing unease about Schlupp’s role. Signed to bolster squad depth, the former Crystal Palace man has yet to convince. His earlier struggles, notably in Celtic’s 1-0 loss to St. Johnstone on April 6, where he conceded a costly free-kick, remain fresh in fans’ minds. On X, supporters were divided: one post read, “Schlupp’s legs are gone, no place for him in this team,” while another defended him, noting, “He’s a squad player, not a starter. Sutton’s too harsh.”
Rodgers, however, remained diplomatic in his post-match press conference, praising the team’s “ruthless edge” while sidestepping questions about Schlupp. The manager’s faith will be tested as Celtic face a packed schedule, including European fixtures. With Callum McGregor and Cameron Carter-Vickers anchoring the side, Celtic can afford occasional off-days, but Schlupp’s inconsistency raises questions about his long-term fit.
Despite the landslide win, Sutton’s remarks highlight a potential chink in Celtic’s armor. As the Hoops chase another title, Schlupp must prove he’s more than a weak link. For now, Celtic’s depth ensures they can overcome individual lapses, but Rodgers will hope Sutton’s warning doesn’t foreshadow bigger issues.
