Peter Grant says what every Celtic fan is thinking amid Tomoki Iwata’s recent form

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Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has had to use his squad recently amid some injury problems that have engulfed his side.

Most notably, club captain Callum McGregor has been missing for our last few matches due to a calf/Achilles issue; however, he is scheduled to return after the international break.

In his place, Tomoki Iwata has been charged with controlling the Hoops’ midfield from deep. He has become an influential part of the side despite suffering fitness problems of his own during the first half of the campaign.

Speaking earlier this week, Rodgers elaborated on the Japanese enforcer’s emergence in the engine room, praising his ability to slot in and perform efficiently.

He stated: “With any player, it’s about getting a run in the team. He’s come in and done well in games when we have either moved Callum up or he hasn’t been available.

“That’s what he has been, a cover player for the squad. He’s done a really good job when he has come in. I’ve been really pleased with Tomo.”

The 26-year-old has managed to make 15 appearances in all competitions this season, registering one goal and two assists in total [Transfermarkt].

Of course, McGregor coming back into contention will be a major boost for the Bhoys, though Iwata has put up a compelling case for further involvement in the campaign’s final stages.

Peter Grant praises Tomoki Iwata’s recent Celtic form

Iwata rarely finds himself in the limelight, playing a quietly effective role at the heart of the Celtic midfield, adopting a simplistic approach.

Nevertheless, former Hoops midfielder Peter Grant has applauded his work on and off the ball, citing his willingness to be a team player as a quality that can go a long way at Parkhead.

Grant stated [Go Radio Football Show]: “I said it a couple of weeks ago: I think he’s one of these guys that come across as quiet because his positional play is so good; I think he’s always in the right position if the ball comes out to him, he’s always available for a teammate.

“He doesn’t go for the worldy passes, he always moves the ball, so the ball comes into him, and he passes it quick, but I think against the ball, his positional sense is so good.”

Tomoki Iwata epitomises the role of a Celtic squad player

Celtic may have some high-profile players among the ranks; however, you are never going to achieve silverware with just a small core of individuals, amplifying the need to have quality in reserve.

Iwata has proven he can step up, supplying a foundation to build from in the six position without any glaring errors, other than an unfortunate handball against Heart of Midlothian at Tynecastle.

Should he feature from the start or as a substitute after the international break, Iwata has done enough to earn some respect on his name at Parkhead.