"Something we aspire to"; Top-flight manager lauds Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou

By John McGinley

August 4, 2022

Ross County boss Malky Mackay has lauded Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou ahead of the two sides meeting in the Scottish Premiership this weekend.

Mackay led Ross County to a top-six finish in the Premiership last season, and his side produced an exciting and forward-thinking display away to Hearts at the weekend, albeit losing 2-1.

Looking for another strong top-flight campaign, the Staggies manager reckons what Postecoglou has managed to do at Celtic is something to take inspiration from.

Speaking to The Ross-shire Journal, he said: “Ange has taken Celtic to another level again – that’s great credit to him as a coach. He’s had the strength of character and leadership, the backbone, to come in from the other side of the world and be a success in one of the most high-pressure jobs in football.

“It’s not easy to stand in those shoes, but he has recruited well and imposed his style of football, which is clear to see. It is a very distinct style they’ve got, which is something we aspire to.

“Yes, we are a small team in the Highlands. We know where we are budget-wise in this league, but it is my job to ensure we have a journey here to make sure we have one of the best teams in Scotland – and last year we proved we were one of the best teams in this country.”

Celtic won both games in Dingwall last season, although one of them went to the last second of a lengthy injury-time period with Anthony Ralston popping up to score a crucial header.

Mackay will be hoping to frustrate the Bhoys in that manner again this weekend, although conditions and team strength are likely to be much different to that hard-fought encounter last December.

The task for Celtic is to turn up bright, aggressively and with serious early intent. If we can put County on the backfoot then it should lead to chances and goals.

It’s another opportunity to show that Postecoglou is indeed bringing the Bhoys to a different level.

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