Key Points
- Bolton Wanderers signed Celtic loanee Johnny Kenny on a deadline-day deal as their seventh January addition.
- Head coach Steven Schumacher praised Kenny as a high-rated forward who strengthens Bolton’s attack.
- Schumacher noted Kenny’s recent goals at a high level and predicted he adds competition and threat for Bolton’s League One challenge.
- Kenny previously scored prolifically on loan at Shamrock Rovers and impressed enough for Celtic to secure him long-term.
Bolton (Glasgow Express) February 17, 2026 – Bolton Wanderers head coach Steven Schumacher has delivered a glowing assessment of new signing Johnny Kenny, the young forward on loan from Celtic FC, predicting he will enhance the team’s attacking options amid their strong League One form.
Schumacher highlighted Kenny as a long-time target who becomes available unexpectedly from Celtic, allowing Bolton to act swiftly before the transfer deadline. The Republic of Ireland international joins as Wanderers sit third in the table after winning four and drawing one of their last five matches.
What did Steven Schumacher say about Johnny Kenny?
According to Bolton Wanderers’ official announcement, Schumacher described Kenny as a player the club rates highly and identified last summer to bolster their attack. He emphasised that Kenny has played regularly and scored goals at a high level since then, making him a significant addition despite initial doubts about his availability this window.
As reported by Football League World, Schumacher’s comments suggest Celtic FC may appreciate the prediction, given Kenny’s potential to thrive in English football while developing further on loan.
How has Johnny Kenny progressed at Celtic and on loan?
Kenny burst onto the scene with Sligo Rovers before moving to Celtic in January 2022, followed by loans at Shamrock Rovers where he scored 20 goals in 2024 as the league’s second-highest scorer. He also gained experience at Queen’s Park and recently signed a new four-year contract with Celtic in August.
What impact did Kenny make on his Bolton debut?
Manager Steven Schumacher praised the immediate impact of Celtic loanee Johnny Kenny during his Bolton debut against Lincoln City, as covered by 67 Hail Hail.
Kenny himself noted Bolton’s summer interest but chose to push for opportunities at Celtic first, expressing happiness now at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.
What does this mean for Bolton and Celtic?
The signing bolsters Schumacher’s squad with extra competition up front as Bolton aim to maintain their promotion push in League One. For Celtic, the loan provides Kenny with EFL exposure to build on his prolific form in Ireland.
Bolton Wanderers continue their strong January recruitment, positioning Kenny to contribute goals and support the team’s recent scoring momentum.
