Matt O’Riley has labelled Jota as the most technically gifted player at Celtic.
O’Riley only signed for the Hoops as recently as January, and it’s fair to say he’s made a big impression. Already a fans-favourite, he’s managed to click with the Celtic frontline brilliantly as a number 8.
O’Riley has managed 3 assists against the likes of Hearts, Motherwell, and Aberdeen respectively. The latest of which came against the Dons and was a brilliantly whipped cross that was seized upon by Jota. The Portuguese talent has become an idol amongst the fans as he continues to wow during his loan spell from Benfica.
And it’s clear he’s already left a serious impression on new teammate O’Riley. Speaking at a fan media event at which 67HailHail were in attendance, Matt was asked by The HomeBhoys who he felt the most technically gifted star was:
“That’s a tough question. We have a lot of technicians because of the way we play. If I’m going off pure smoothness and technical ability then I’d probably say Jota to be fair. I just think he’s really elegant with the way he plays. You see the stuff he does on the pitch and he usually excites the fans just whenever he gets the ball really.
“So I think for that reason I’d probably say him.”
Jota impressiong both teammates and supporters at Celtic Park
It just goes to show that it’s not only the Celtic supporters who are being blown away by the on-loan Benfica man. Evidently, the dressing room seems to think a lot of him too.
Even his stats are incredible considering how long he was out for. Jota missed over a month of action for the Hoops between December and January. Yet still he sits with 10 goals and 8 assists to his name for the season [Transfermarkt].
The most reassuring part of this for Celtic fans is that Jota isn’t showing any lasting effects from the hamstring injury suffered against Hearts in early December. He’s already been back amongst the goals and has been a key part of Celtic winning 8 consecutive games in 2022.
Even in his most recent outing against Raith Rovers, he looked more than up for it as his attitude continues to be on point. And that’s another reason the Celtic supporters have taken to him so easily. He’s an infectious character that doesn’t appear to give the club any issues with his commitment.
That’s got to be admired. And it certainly is. You can bet that O’Riley won’t be the only one who thinks that the Benfica-owned star is the most technically gifted at the club. You’ll probably do well to find anyone of a Celtic persuasion who disagrees.
Hopefully it all leads to a permanent contract being signed in the summer. For now, however, we’ll continue to enjoy what he’s providing at Parkhead.
In other news, What Ange said to Matt O’Riley that convinced him to join Celtic
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