Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that Anthony Ralston will be a big part of his squad moving forward, having been left impressed with his progress since he was last in charge of the Bhoys.
It’s easy to forget that Ralston actually got his first real run in the team during the first Rodgers era, with the right-back even playing a huge UEFA Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain.
A lot, good and bad, has happened to the defender at Celtic since then. But Rodgers thinks his growth on and off the pitch makes him a strong candidate to be heavily involved in his second spell at the club.
The Bhoys boss said [Scottish Sun]: “When you go back to when I was first here, I put him in for a reason. I thought he was a really good talent and a very good player. So much so, I put him in against PSG in 2017. As time went on, maybe some things changed for him a little bit with injuries or whatever else. He didn’t play as much. But under Ange Postecoglou he had a great spell.
“Sometimes there are moments in your life that change your perspective. There’s no doubt for me, for the likes of Tony, when you become a father, it makes you reassess everything. It’s not just about you, it’s about doing it for your family. It gives you a purpose in life. I know from speaking to him, that was a real life-changing moment for Tony. He’s always been a really good player. As a young guy I was impressed with his attitude and energy.
“It’s been great for Tony to be able to show that to the fans, because he’s a Celtic man who wants to do well for the club. I’m really pleased he did well and got his new contract. He’s another player who will be really important for us in my time here. He worked hard and became an international player. I love his attitude. He fights every single day and he’ll be a big part of my squad.”
The comments remove any doubt – Alistair Johnston and Anthony Ralston will be the go-to right-back pairing over the coming season. Ralston did indeed show impressive form under Ange for a spell, but his most recent run in the team after Johnston’s injury was a little less impactful.
Nonetheless, Rodgers clearly feels there’s value to tap into here. It seems doubtful that Celtic will be going out to look for a right-back in the transfer market to challenge the first-choice Johnston based on these comments.
There’s no doubting Ralston’s commitment to performing for Celtic and hopefully getting back to full fitness, with new confidence in him provided by Rodgers, helps him recapture the best of his form.
In other news, Celtic have a Japan plan for latest summer signings as amusing situation arises.
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