Former Celtic midfielder Stuart Armstrong has commented on the progress of the man who effectively replaced him in the Hoops team, Ryan Christie, The Scottish Sun report.
Armstrong left the Hoops for Southampton during last year’s summer transfer window.
The Scotland international had emerged as an important player on his day for the Hoops, leaving a gap in the squad when he left.
It’s an attacking midfield gap that Christie has filled expertly since bursting into the team last October.
Armstrong is impressed with his progress, telling The Scottish Sun: “I have always been a fan of Ryan’s ability. He came to Celtic from Inverness when I was there.
“Then he went out on loan which was very good for his development but I thought he was good enough to be at Celtic at that time.
“He has come back and shown everyone what a good player he is. He is dynamic, has good energy and can score goals. He is a really good guy.”
More effective than Armstrong ever was?
When Armstrong left the club there were worries about Celtic’s ability to link midfield and attack. The former Dundee United man was ambitious with his runs forward and had a keen eye for goal.
His biggest season undoubtedly came in 2016/17 when he netted 17 goals on the way to an invincible treble.
It’s fair to say though that Christie has stepped up to the mark and offered at least as much as Armstrong ever did. Perhaps even more.
He has more energy and shows more commitment than Armstrong did with his performances. He is also proving to be an exceptional attacking talent in terms of goal contribution.
Last term he scored 11 goals and assisted nine times despite missing much of the season, at first due to not being selected and then because of injury. This season he has already managed to net eight goals and assist five times in 14 appearances.
It’s an exceptional record. If he can stay consistent and injury free across the season, he’ll have produced a monster season that eclipses anything Armstrong managed at the club.
Still just 24 too, there’s room for even more improvement and growth as a player.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
