Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou says training at Lennoxtown has gone up a level this week because of the inclusion of Reo Hatate, Liel Abada and Jota.
The Bhoys boss confirmed in a press conference this afternoon that all three are available for selection on Sunday and their mere presence over the last few days has helped the squad better prepare for the upcoming test against Rangers.
Going into what their returns mean to Celtic ahead of such a huge Scottish Cup semi-final occasion, Postecoglou left no one in any doubt they will be involved in some capacity if they are fit enough.
Postecoglou pleased with Celtic training ahead of Rangers
He said [Celtic YouTube]: “It’s hugely beneficial for us as a group. Even training this week has gone up a level because we’ve got three more quality players who have joined in training.
“All three boys have missed a bit recently. They’re itching to get involved, as well. It certainly helps, not just with the starting eleven but with the ability to go with the bench and impact the game. I’m really pleased.
“They’ve obviously got training to go tomorrow and the need to get through that but they’ve had a strong week of training and I’m pleased they are available.”
Postecoglou’s starting eleven is now pretty hard to predict and that’s a good position to be in, too. It keeps the opposition guessing and allows the manager some flexibility in his approach.
As he always notes, it’s a squad game, and it means the players coming into the match around the hour mark will also be prime picks. That could be the difference between a positive and negative result in what is expected to be a very competitive match.
It’s time for this team to show why they are regarded as the best in the city and the country, again.
In other news, Celtic Park’s hugely impressive 2022/23 sell-out record.
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