The Celtic Rover

Theo Archibald is off to Cliftonhill on loan

- Mark Henderson

THEO Archibald knew the onset of 2017 was the time for change. Part of the Celtic Youth Academy for most of his life and a regular for the Development Squad for the past two seasons, the 18-year-old will start the New Year wearing the unfamiliar colours of yellow and red.

The winger has joined a number of his young colleagues in heading out on loan for the rest of the season, with his destination League One side Albion Rovers.

Playing in the third tier of Scottish football against seasoned professionals will take the Hoops youngster completely out his comfort zone – and he can’t wait.

He knows starring for the Coat bridge side in this highly-competitive league will toughen up him mentally and physically which will only accelerate his development.

And before his departure to Clifton hill, Archibald caught up with the View and described his hopes and ambitions for his temporary move to Darren Young’s side.

What were your reasons in heading out on loan?

I wanted to get some first-team experience before I get too old and I felt Albion Rovers was the right move. There are two good coaches down there and it’s quite local for me. I have had this first half of the season at 20s and played in the UEFA Youth League but now it’s time to test myself against men for the first time. I felt Albion Rovers was the right chance for me and they wanted to take me as well so hopefully it will work.

So the management team at Albion Rovers influenced your decision?

Billy Stark is there along with Darren Young the gaffer, who plays and manages as well. They got promoted the season before last and the club are on the up. They are a few points off the promotion places if they win their game in hand. There are positive times there and I want to be part of that and hopefully we can push for promotion which would be brilliant.