Unlikely Celtic man applauded as Mr Reliable as Stephen McGinn insists ‘I love what he has’

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Celtic have a powerful squad to choose from that isn’t just restricted to quality in the starting line-up under Brendan Rodgers.

Following eight Bhoys’ summer signings, the Irishman was able to add to his existing player pool, which has delivered repeated success over a number of years at the club.

Having two players pushing for every position has been a key focus during Brendan Rodgers’ two spells at Celtic, forming the basis of his quality over quantity approach weighted on finding a fine balance.

Some players may have more prominent roles in his set-up. However, the Hoops’ squad are all ready to chip in when called upon at the drop of a hat.

Having that sort of compatibility adds to the holistic approach Rodgers’ men collectively take in their push for further honours, and pundit Stephen McGinn has pointed out one Celtic man who deserves credit for his unwavering commitment to the cause.

Stephen McGinn on Celtic’s reliable star Anthony Ralston

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, McGinn has identified Celtic star Anthony Ralston as a pillar of strength for club and country despite having to contend with spells where minutes are limited.

He stated: “Whether he has a good game or a bad game. I love what Tony Ralston has. He just steps up for Celtic or Scotland. He gives his absolute best, so reliable, and never seems to be missing games with injury.

“Scotland, in an ideal situation, go to the Euros; they have Hickey and Nathan Patterson, but Anthony Ralston’s there; he never holds up the white flag and says his hamstring is tight, even if he’s having a tough game.

“As a fellow professional, everything he stands for, I have huge respect for him. I thought he was good (against Portugal). Bear in mind Rafael Leao was outstanding in the first-half game, he gave him a real tough time in Lisbon.

“I thought Anthony Ralston; I know Leao wasn’t directly playing against him in the first half (on Tuesday). He came on as a sub, and I know he got a bit of joy with the cutback. But Anthony Ralston sticks to his guns, and he does his best.”

Anthony Ralston could play more for Celtic this term

Speaking at the tail end of last term, Celtic boss Rodgers forecasted Ralston to play more this term, as he stated: “He will feature more for me next season. Part of this season was that Ali (Johnston) was the first choice. Tony came in and played some games. Ali had been out for a while so when he came back from injury I needed to get him games to get him up to speed. That meant that Tony hadn’t played so much.

“But there are a few things with Tony. One, I know he is always ready because if he is not playing in games his training is the game. So he trains every day and his standard, quality, and mentality are like that of a game.”

Despite only making one start for Celtic this campaign, Ralston is a reliable servant who will step in whenever necessary and always puts his best foot forward, even when times are tough.

Illustrating admirable professionalism, his contribution will be just as important as anyone else’s as the Bhoys chase further silverware this campaign.