BBC Pundit Michael Stewart is amazed by how quickly Ange Postecoglou and Celtic have taken to each other.
After last week’s loss to Hearts, pundits would be forgiven for drawing hasty conclusions about the scope of Celtic’s rebuilding project. However, the feel-good factor is in the air, after three consecutive, resounding wins.
Jablonec and Dundee have seen first-hand what Postecoglou is building at Paradise.
However, Stewart is convinced that Celtic still “desperately” need to splash the cash, in order to realise Postecoglou’s vision.
On his Twitter page, the popular pundit said:
In terms of the perception, that’s perhaps a comment aimed at the rest of the league. From very early on, Celtic supporters have bought into what Ange Postecoglou has been talking about.
Postecoglou being able to deliver that fast-paced, exciting football he spoke about upon being hired is another thing. While the last three matches have offered a lot of confidence around Kerrydale Street, the squad still needs a few more faces.
In recent days, the right-back chase has hotted up. Yan Couto, of Manchester City, was spotted at Celtic Park last night. Meanwhile, reports state that Josip Juranovic is still being eyed for a Parkhead switch.
Across the rest of the pitch, major names have already settled in. Joe Hart seems to be the answer in goals. Carl Starfelt is growing into his role at Celtic, while Liel Abada and Kyogo Furuhashi have both had extremely hot starts.
James McCarthy is yet to make his debut, but the Ireland international offers some class and grit in the middle of the park.
Michael Stewart: Celtic need to buy more time
If the Celtic board have done one thing to frustrate supporters over the last decade, it’s not investing in the squad to a sufficient level. Even though there’s been a flurry of activity so far, anyone can tell there just isn’t the depth required for a full tilt at various competitions.
While “desperately needed” may seem a little much, there are definitely areas where the squad depth is a worry. In the wings, and on the right of defence, even one or two injuries would cause havoc.
There’s also a pretty clear need for another experienced centre-back. While Christopher Jullien seems to be closer to returning, and Stephen Welsh has been relatively decent so far, another body through the door for our defence is a must.
There’s also uncertainty up front, regarding the futures of Albian Ajeti, Leigh Griffiths and – of course – Odsonne Edouard.
So, yes; perceptions have changed. This is a Celtic team to challenge for major honours, after a very busy summer.
But we can’t be happy with where we are now. Complacency has been our biggest foe over recent years; lessons surely have been learnt by now.
Read more: James Forrest closing in on major double-milestone
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
