Former Hereford United loanee Gary Hooper wasn't risked today in Scunthorpe's home friendly victory against Sheffield Wednesday. Hooper, 22, has constantly been linked with a move away from Glanford Park with suitors including newly promoted Newcastle United, Championship favourites Middlesbrough and Scottish giants Celtic.
"I did plan to play Gary for 45 minutes today", commented Nigel Adkins on their official website. "Obviously I'm aware of the situation that's arising and I didn't want to risk anything. The fact of the matter is he hasn't signed for anybody yet and as everyone knows, there are little things to be done before he signs a piece of paper."
"It's fair to say that a situation has arisen where he will probably end up at another football club. But until that happens we've just got to bat on best we can."
Update: BBC is reporting that Celtic have had a bid in the region of £2.4million accepted and Hooper will undergo a medical this weekend.