John Hartson's Celtic comments highlight hidden fortitude of Ange's team

By Patrick Sinat

March 31, 2023

I think we can all agree on one thing. To come and play for Celtic you have to be a special player.

I mean to really play for Celtic. Not just get bought or sign a contract. To go out onto that pitch and really make a contribution. Win trophies. Perform week in, week out.

We have seen many players come to Parkhead with big reputations and fail to make any sort of impact at the club.

Not because they lacked ability, but because the demands of playing for the club were so huge.

And John Hartson opened up on what he felt it takes to be a success at the club.

Speaking on The Go Radio Football Show, Hartson said, “The pressure of playing in front of that crowd on the demands that the crowd put on you, and the manager and the other players that are around you put on you to perform every single week.

“So people think well, going to play for Celtic you’re going to get more chances, you’re playing with better players, but mentally as well you’ve got to be prepared for the pressure. You’re dealing with what comes up in your day-to-day life as well.

“Walking around the city. Getting used to where you can go for a meal, where you can go for a drink, these types of things. Mixing with people, getting stick on the street, all this certain stuff. It takes a certain person and a personality to succeed at Celtic.”

Hartson was at Celtic for five seasons so if anyone knows what it takes to make it at Celtic he does.

And listening to what John was saying just reminded me about the incredible job Ange took on and how he has managed to be successful in such a short space of time.

You don’t need me to tell you the backstory but coming from Japan on his own and healing a fractured club whilst winning a league and cup double is just remarkable.

Ange has the opportunity to make his name as a legend this season should he win the domestic Treble but in many Celtic fan’s eyes, he is already one.