Former Celtic manager Gordon Strachan has praised Ange Postecoglou for his side’s consistency, which makes this squad ‘a pleasure’ to watch.
The ex-Scotland international also defended Postecoglou’s approach to games in Europe, as he lauded the Celtic boss for how exciting a team he has built.
Strachan is well aware of the pressures that come with the role at Parkhead, having managed the Bhoys between 2005 and 2009.
After being involved in Scottish Football for several decades, after starting his career at Dundee in 1974, the ex-Scotland boss has also watched over many a Celtic manager.
However, Strachan claims that he has rarely seen a Hoops team be so consistent than under the stewardship of Postecoglou.
Speaking in a recent interview, Gordon Strachan was full of praise for the work that Ange Postecoglou had done during his 18 months in charge, as he named some of the players in the current squad he would have loved to have worked with.
The 50-time capped international also defended the former Socceroos boss for his performances in Europe thus far, as he explained why he should continue with his methods, despite the huge task that Scottish clubs face.
He said [Sun Sport]: “The thing about Ange’s team, which is different from any other Celtic manager, apart from Jock Stein, is I think all managers have had spells of games where they’ve been smashing, terrific. I can think back to many games (when I was in charge), and I’m really proud of it.
“I don’t think there’s been a team so exciting consistently as the one that’s playing just now. Whether they’re getting beat by Real Madrid or beating Dundee United 9-0, it’s always a pleasure to switch on the TV and watch it.
“So, looking at the players we have now, you’ve got Juranovic – I’d love to have him in the squad. Carter-Vickers and McGregor, yes. Striker-wise, I was lucky I had (Chris) Sutton, (John) Hartson, Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink, Maciej Żurawski and Shaun Maloney. So if you gave me that lot, I’d be more than happy with that.
“Obviously, Kyogo as well because he adds something different, and Jota, so there’s quite a few you’d have in your squad.
“But the game is a wee bit different now. If you think back to when Celtic had to go to the likes of Falkirk and all these places when you need to play up to your neck in mud. The rules were different; the tackle from behind was still allowed at that time. As long as you touched the ball, you could do what you wanted with the rest of your body.”
He continued: “Does Ange need to be successful? It would be great if he could. Every team in Scotland has been disappointing (in Europe). St Johnstone, Hearts and Hibs have been put out, and you couldn’t even remember their (the opponent’s) names.
“We all could be doing a bit better, but what we’ve got, I think we’re doing all right.
“Will Ange change? No, I think he will only try and get better at what he does. Football fans all say they want to see great football, but they’re seeing it! Why are they moaning? If you’re bringing success and taking on Real Madrid and Man Utd and all that, then you can’t complain.
“Chelsea have spent almost half a billion in the transfer window; what chance have you got? People say Celtic need to spend this and that, but it’s impossible to do it.
“Celtic and Rangers have to protect the clubs as well. They can’t go and spend money they’ve not got because they can get into trouble. We need to appreciate what the players are doing just now.
“If you play Barcelona 10 times, then you might beat them once; that’s just the way it goes.”
Strachan lauds Postecoglou’s Celtic side, who are aiming to create more trophy success.
It is quite the praise from one former Celtic manager to the man who currently leads the Bhoys from the Parkhead dugout.
Postecoglou has done an incredible job since his arrival in Glasgow 18 months ago, and that is evident for everyone to see.
There are only a few men who will know the pressure that the 57-year-old is under. So, I am sure the Celtic boss will very much appreciate the high praise of his team.
However, Ange Postecoglou’s aim is to continue winning trophies at the club, and as much as he may enjoy receiving the praise, winning is still at the top of his agenda.
It still feels as though there could be even more to come for Celtic under the Australian, which must feel like a daunting thought for our Scottish Premiership counterparts.
But he is clearly on the right track, and that is recognised by one of the men who Ange Postecoglou follows in leading Celtic as manager.
In other news, Alistair Johnston gets Postecoglou and Celtic mission already; St. Mirren midweek question answered brilliantly.
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