Tomoki Iwata makes it clear he already perfectly understands Celtic derby days

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When asked about the atmosphere in Celtic matches against Rangers, Tomoki Iwata’s answer was all business. He isn’t in Glasgow to be a footballing tourist.

Undoubtedly it is a buzz for every player on the pitch when Celtic face Rangers. Whether you have come through the Celtic Academy like Callum McGregor or arrived from around the world like Iwata, it’s something to savour.

However, for the Japanese midfielder, a performance and result is the most important thing. He wants Celtic to be far better than they were against Motherwell on Saturday, understanding the pressure involved.

Iwata ready for the ‘pressure’ of Celtic vs Rangers

Iwata said [Scottish Daily Mail, 24/04 print edition, Verdict supplement page 5]: “There were very good atmospheres in the games [I played against Rangers]. It’s very important we get the result. It’s not just about playing in a good atmosphere. I enjoy the pressure because this is something you don’t really get often.

“We just have to review what happened against Motherwell and try again to play our attractive football. Getting a result is very important. Every minute in the game is going to be important for us. So we’ll take the opportunity to do everything we can.

“I am disappointed to only draw the match. Everything started from the period after we scored our first goal, because we couldn’t score another one. We made the game difficult by ourselves. Personally, I couldn’t get involved as much as I wanted in the attacking situations during the match.”

Iwata is a contender to start this weekend’s clash. It would be just his fourth in Celtic colours and his first ever against Rangers, if he does.

Celtic are playing a waiting game with Reo Hatate’s fitness, while Iwata has looked sharper than the reliable Aaron Mooy in recent fixtures, preferred in Ange Postecoglou’s eleven. Undoubtedly, it would be his biggest test year.

But these are the occasions you must relish and the tests you must come through to be a success at Celtic. Iwata has shown so far he has no fear in trying to do that and I’d be excited to see what he could do against our rivals.

In other news, Video: Celtic prospect nets ‘great goal’ out on loan.