Hibernian starlet Josh Doig should be wary of a summer transfer to Arsenal or Leeds United, according to John Collins, who spoke to The National about the possible pitfalls that await him in the Premier League.
At the age of 18, not many players have their pick of clubs – but Doig isn't your average 18-year-old.
Hibs' teen talisman is already facing a dilemma after a spectacular breakout season at Easter Road, one that could end with the SFWA Young Player Of The Year award on his mantelpiece.
According to The Sun in April, Doig has admirers at Arsenal, Leeds, and Pep Guardiola's Manchester City.
Collins, on the other hand, can't shake the nagging feeling that this is a case of 'too much, too soon.'
“Doig has been the season's highlight so far,” said the former Celtic midfielder.
“He did an excellent job in his first season. He's still got a long way to go. He still has work to do on his final delivery into the box, but he has shown tremendous promise.
“It's difficult to turn down major offers, but I've always believed that the first-team shirt is the most important thing for a professional footballer. You can go somewhere and make more money, but life isn't as much fun if you're sitting on the bench or in the stands.”
Collins suggests Doig could do a lot worse than follow in the footsteps of Kieran Tierney.
The Scotland international honed his skills at Celtic for four years before joining Arsenal in a £20 million deal, and he was ready to compete for a starting spot at the Emirates.
“So many times, we see players travel too quickly and then vanish. These English clubs have massive squads and depend solely on young talent with potential,” Collins adds.
“Kieran Tierney is an excellent example for Doig. He was a regular at Celtic for several years before moving to Arsenal at the right time. It was a good deal for Celtic and a good deal for Kieran.
“But, most importantly, he is an Arsenal first-team regular. He didn't go as a team player because he was too young.”
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