FORMER Celtic favourite Tom Rogic’s hopes of playing in the World Cup Finals next month are fading fast.
The 29-year-old playmaker is facing a race against time to persuade head coach Graham Arnold to include him in the Australian squad for the Qatar showpiece which kicks off on November 21.
After leaving Parkhead in May following 16 honours in nine and a half years, it looks as though Rogic’s choice of joining Championship outfit West Brom has backfired spectacularly.
Steve Bruce brought the Aussie out of his self-imposed exile by signing him for the Hawthorns club earlier this month. However, the manager was sacked two weeks ago and the stylish performer is struggling for game time.
CELTIC ICON…Tom Rogic in happier times as he celebrates his late winner in the 2-1 Scottish Cup Final triumph over Aberdeen in 2017.
He made a 15-minute subs’ appearance in the Midlands club’s 2-1 loss at Millwall, despite taking the lead through John Swift. Callum Styles levelled before former Ibrox defender Kyle Bartley was red-carded to leave the Baggies a man short. The hosts took advantage with a stoppage-time winner from Tyler Burey.
The latest defeat left the club in second bottom place in the table two points above Huddersfield. They have won only two of their 16 league games, losing six and drawing eight.
Arnold is due to name his final squad of 26 players in three weeks’ time.
Rogic’s countdown continues at home to Sheffield United on Saturday with two more game at the Hawthorns against Blackpool and Stoke City and an away match at leaders Queens Park Rangers.
Unless Arnold decides to gamble big-style on the Hoops hero, it looks as though the clock has beaten him.
