Michael Stewart talks up Tom Rogic display as Celtic defeat Hearts

By David Walton

August 15, 2021

Micahel Stewart has been left singing the praises of Celtic star Tom Rogic after a stunning individual display against Hearts this afternoon.

All of Celtic’s play in the first 45 in particular was coming through Rogic. The Aussie was consistently bursting forward from midfield and using his quick feet to create space for himself and his teammates.

Rogic would then provide the assist for Kyogo Furuhashi to net Celtic’s third. He was everywhere, and was one of several key reasons as to why the Hoops are into the last eight of the Betfred Cup.

Rogic was given the Premier Sports Man of the Match award, and Stewart was left brimming with praise for him post-match as he spoke on Premier Sports [Premier Sports 1, 15/08, 16:45]

“I think he just fits into that style of play very well. When you’re playing against difficult teams that are sitting defensively to blick you, it’s important you’ve got a good balance around. And when you’ve got those pacey players, players who are creating space, there’s nobody better at being able to exploit it than Tom Rogic.

“In and around the edge of the box, slide rule passes, he’s got the ability to score goals as well. He’ll be very happy with his afternoon’s work.

“I’m pretty sure he’s looking forward to working more under his former national team manager Ange Postecoglou, because I think the style of play is going to suit Rogic.”

Michael Stewart spot on, but Tom Rogic not the only star of the show

You can’t overly argue with the fact Rogic got the man-of-the-match award. It was fully deserved given what the Aussie provided all afternoon. He bagged an assist and played a key role in the second goal with his effort being deflected out for a corner.

But it’s the stability Rogic brings to the midfield. He turns probing attacking moves into seriously dangerous ones with his direct running. Hearts couldn’t cope with it all afternoon, and he suddenly looks a different player.

However, you could’ve given the MOTM award to many others in green-and-white. Furuhashi, for example, played a sublime ball across the Hearts defence for Forrest to assist Edouard. Not to mention his fine finish for goal number three.

David Turnbull was another who looks back to top form with a stunning display to follow on from Jablonec. Stephen Welsh, meanwhile, bossed Liam Boyce for 90 minutes.

Celtic could’ve been out of sight, but it’s difficult to focus on individual performers too much. After all, Ange Postecoglou’s team seems to be all about collective responsibility and contribution.

And even though Hearts escaped with some dignity intact, they can feel extremely fortunate. This was never a 3-2 game, and the promising signs are absolutely bursting out the seams just now for Celtic.

In other news, Celtic supporters are absolutely loving the Tom Rogic resurgence