Oostende isn’t Hend for Osaze
Osaze Urhoghide is happy to follow in Jack Hendry’s footsteps at KV Oostende on loan – but insists he plans to make the return trip to Celtic in the summer.
Scotland star Hendry revived his career after making his loan from the Hoops to the Belgian side permanent.
But while Oostende have the same option for the 21-year- old’s January loan, Urhoghide feels he still has a big role to play at Parkhead.
He was the first signing of Ange Postecoglou’s Hoops era when he joined from Sheffield Wednesday and the Austra l ian boss has told the stopper he still has high hopes for him.
Urhoghide, who penned a four-year deal when he moved to Celtic in the summer, said: “I spoke with Ange before I left and he told me he still sees a future at Celtic for me.
“I didn’t really play as much under Ange as I wanted to and we both felt that I needed to play regular football to progress and work my way into the first team and that moving away was the best option.
“So right now, my focus is on Oostende and we will review it in the summer and go from there.
“I had some options to stay closer to home but the Belgian league is of a very high quality.
“It’s not going to be easy here but I’m ready for the challenge and I’m looking to leave Oostende a better player.
“I’ve settled in well and am really enjoying it so far. I made my debut at the weekend and played right-wing back, although that isn’t my normal position and I would prefer playing centre-back going forward.
“But I’m still really enjoying playing football in a different country and embracing a different culture.
“Jack Hendry wasn’t the reason I came to Oostende to be honest but he did really well here.
“I knew this was a good opportunity with a team who wanted me.
“I need to show I can play at a good standard every week, develop and return to Celtic stronger.”
Urhoghide made his Celtic debut in the Europa League win over Real Betis at Parkhead and said: “It was a really special moment as all my family were there and it made me really hungry to get more opportunities.”