DEDRYCK BOYATA’S dad has warned young Belgian players NOT to follow in his son’s footsteps because before Celtic it looked like his career and early promise would count for nothing.

According to SunSport Dedryck signed for Man City back in 2006 for a contract in excess of £200k per year. That amount of money for a youngster who just shows promise is life changing!

However, the defender’s talent was wasted ta Manchester City and a large chunk of his career was wasted playing for a club who really had no intention of ever bringing him through.

Until he signed for Celtic the player was more of a Football Manager myth than someone anyone knew too much about.

Speaking about that part of his career, his Dad was clear that taking the big money move so early could be detrimental to on-field progression.

“Dedryck lost lots of time in Manchester.

“The offer he received at the age of 16 was seemed difficult to refuse – £200,000 a year? It was even more!

“If I can advise parents – do not go abroad too quickly.

“Take the time to quietly grow in Belgium, as Tielemans or Dennis Praet [former Anderlecht star now at Sampdoria] did.”

Boyata’s Celtic contract is running out and the player will be able to speak to any club in January if the bhoys don’t manage to snap him up on a new deal.