Chris Sutton has suggested that Matt O’Riley’s exclusion from the Denmark squad for Euro 2024 could unexpectedly benefit Celtic during the summer transfer window.

Despite the potential disappointment for O’Riley, Sutton believes this could fortify Celtic’s position in transfer negotiations.

In his column for the Daily Record, Sutton explored the ramifications of O’Riley’s omission by Denmark’s coach Kasper Hjulmand, who previously criticized the level of Scottish football. This decision, according to Sutton, might reduce the midfielder’s visibility on the international stage and consequently the intensity of interest from other clubs during the transfer window.

“There’s been this assumption he’ll be going but it doesn’t have to be the case. It will depend on his options and how much clubs are willing to pay.

“Celtic are financially strong and have no need to let him go on the cheap. Missing out on the Euros could have a knock on effect on his value in the transfer market.

“But Celtic don’t need to sell anyway. The fact he’s not in the shop window could be a positive for Brendan Rodgers in all of this.

“You see it around every big tournament. Someone comes in and has a couple of good games, and there’s a scramble to sign them for big money.

“But who is to say that would have happened with O’Riley. He could have gone there and been on the bench, and being part of it wouldn’t have made any difference.

“At least now, from a Celtic point of view, he will get the chance to rest up and away from all the summer headlines. I’m sure there will still be bids but it could have an impact on the level of clubs that come in.”

While O’Riley’s absence from Euro 2024 might be a personal setback, it could have benefits for Celtic by keeping transfer distractions at bay and allowing them to either retain a key player for another season or negotiate a transfer deal without the inflated prices typically triggered by tournament exposure.

However, I don’t think his Euro snub will put any team sniffing around him off.