Match

“Barky’s been good”; Ange Postecoglou praises goalkeeper ahead of Celtic European test

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Ange Postecoglou has praised goalkeeper Vasilis Barkas ahead of the first competitive Celtic fixture of the season.

The comments, along with his starting berth against Preston North End, is the clearest indication yet that Barkas is the first-choice goalkeeper going into the campaign.

Barkas had a solid showing against Preston, making a good save from a powerful shot before closing down Scott Sinclair after the attacker was through on goal.

Further to that, he continues to look confident in possession of the ball, as well as with the bold positioning that Postecoglou is looking for.

Speaking to Celtic TV after the game, the Bhoys boss said: “Barky’s been good. Since I’ve come in, he’s been really positive.

“He did well today, made a couple of good saves and dominated his area which was a positive.

“We’re training tomorrow for a few of the guys who missed out today. Hopefully, they come through that unscathed then we’ll have a look at the team for Tuesday and yeah, we’ve got to be ready.”

No sign Ange Postecoglou is on the hunt for a goalkeeper

Although Celtic have been linked with a goalkeeper or two so far in the summer transfer window, there’s really been no firm indication Postecoglou wants one.

In fact, he seems happy with having Barkas in place.

Ange Postecoglou goalkeeper
Photo by Craig Foy/SNS Group via Getty Images

Some will be worried about that situation. Barkas struggled last season under Neil Lennon after all.

However, we have to show a bit of faith in the Greek international. I’m sure he’d admit himself he didn’t settle last season. Now it’s time for a bit of redemption.

If Ange is happy, I am too!

In other news, Pat Bonner gets it spot on about Celtic, Midtjylland and Ange Postecoglou.