Celtic could consider sending Joel van den Berg out on loan in January if the summer signing is still struggling for first-team minutes.

The 19-year-old has yet to make his Celtic debut following his arrival from PSV Eindhoven, with injury disrupting his start in Glasgow.

According to Pete O’Rourke at Football Insider, Celtic would explore a temporary move for the second half of the season if opportunities remain limited.

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However, the report says any decision would depend on Celtic having sufficient midfield cover.

Van den Berg’s early absence has been frustrating for supporters waiting to see what the reported £3.4m signing can offer.

He was pictured wearing a protective boot on his left foot in September, underlining that his lack of involvement cannot simply be put down to selection.

That makes the period between now and January important.

The midfielder needs an opportunity to get fit and show Martin O’Neill what he can bring before Celtic decide where he would benefit most from spending the remainder of the campaign.

A loan could make sense if regular football remains out of reach at Parkhead. At his age, competitive minutes would offer more than an extended spell watching from the sidelines.

But Celtic also need to give their own investment a chance. Supporters are still waiting for a first glimpse of Van den Berg in the hoops, and an injury-hit opening few weeks offers little basis for judging his ability.