Opinion

Celtic youngsters show immense promise in Ross County success

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The Celtic youngsters were at it again in their 3-1 SPFL Reserve League success over Ross County yesterday.

The victory was enough to take the Hoops up to the top of the Reserve League with just three games remaining. Rangers’ win over Hibernian allowed Celtic to leapfrog the Edinburgh side at the top.

As is the norm with Celtic this season, the highlights are now available to watch on the club’s official YouTube channel. Here’s the link for the official video.

Karamoko Dembele has been playing with players twice his size throughout his youth days (Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

The goals from Stephen Welsh, Karamoko Dembele, and Ewan Henderson sealed the win, but there were two stars that caught the eye.

Despite the fact Mikey Johnston was on song with two assists, it was Armstrong Oko-flex and young Dembele that seemed to steal the show.

During the extensive highlight video, Oko-flex was in about most things. He showed tremendous awareness and pace to get beyond the County defence on several occasions. But just as impressive, however, was his eye for a killer ball.

First-team appearances beckon in the future

He’s only made one squad appearance this season in the 1-0 win at Rugby Park back in February. But with Oko-flex’s creativity, it wouldn’t be surprising if he pops up in the first-team at some stage between now and the end of the campaign.

But, just as impressive, however, was the ball control of Dembele. He showed tremendous close control and footwork to bamboozle the County back-line. He effortlessly loses his markers through his quick feet, and doesn’t look fazed despite facing defenders a lot more physical than himself.

Tommy McIntyre’s young Celts are three games away from the league title (Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)

Both of the youngsters have been impressing in recent weeks with the reserve side. Should Celtic wrap up the SPFL Reserve League in the coming weeks, the duo will have played their parts in it.

Their next challenge is likely to be Rangers as they look to hold their advantage. Defeat to the Murray Park outfit could prove to be disastrous, and the duo of Oko-flex and Dembele will be required to put in similar showings like they did at County.

But after their display yesterday, there’s plenty to get excited about regarding the duo.