Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou has praised Hoops winger Jota after he received senior international recognition for the first time today.
The 23-year-old has been a crucial member of Postecoglou’s side since his arrival from Benfica on summer deadline day last year.
After completing his permanent move to Parkhead, Jota has gone from strength to strength, producing ten goal contributions in his 12 appearances this season.
Earlier today, that form was rewarded as it was announced that the Celtic star was named as part of Portugal’s 55-man provisional World Cup squad.
Although at this stage, it seems unlikely Jota will be heading to Qatar next month, with so much attacking talent at Portugal’s disposal, he is clearly catching the eye of those in his homeland.
Having featured and starred for his nation across several different age levels, the next step to senior level would be a huge achievement for the frontman.
Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has praised Jota for his international recognition, which he believes is bound to help the club, with the winger set to be provided with a huge incentive and motivating factor.
Speaking in a press conference attended by 67 Hail Hail, he said: “Super pleased. It’s a hell of a recognition for him; we know how strong a nation Portugal is, particularly in those attacking positions.
“We know his form has been outstanding for us, both domestically and in Europe, over the last sort of 16-17 months he’s been with us.
“I’m sure it’s encouraging for him because he probably came to us 18 months ago, just wanting to kick-start his career and in a very short space of time, now he’s within national team recognition.
“So, it’s great for him, and I’m sure it’s a great incentive and motivator for him. Great for our football club.”
Both Celtic and Jota will benefit hugely from Portugal recognition.
Postecoglou’s Celtic squad is already full of established senior international players. So, it is great to see another heading in that direction.
Jota isn’t only being mentioned in any old national side, though. The Celtic winger has been included in a world-class list of attacking talent, as Portugal also looks to the future generation.
Of course, as Ange mentions, Jota will benefit massively from his achievement, and it should provide that extra motivating factor of potentially being picked for his country.
However, it could also prove to be a fantastic achievement which Celtic can benefit hugely from.
Examples like Jota showcase the club’s abilities to kick-start young, talented players’ careers at the top level of European Football, earning them recognition from across the globe.
Here’s hoping we continue to see the benefits of this fantastic accomplishment from both Jota’s point of view and Celtic’s.
In other news, Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou confirms Jota injury return timeline.
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