Anthony Ralson’s recent performances have suggested that the right back does have a future at Celtic.
It has been an up and down Celtic career so far for the youngster. He had looked bright in his initial appearances, suggesting Celtic’s right back position may be secure for the future.
However, after a disastrous game against Paris Saint Germain in the Champions League, he stuttered his way out on loan to Dundee United.
Now, he won’t be the first nor the last player to have a nightmare against the French champions. However the experience seemed to say a lot about his character.
Ralston, up against megastar Neymar, was run ragged by the Brazilian winger all night long.
At 3-0 to Paris, Ralston took exception to Neymar, before squaring up to him then laughing in his face.
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It may have been encouraging to see a young player so unfazed by the challenge. However, Celtic were in the middle of a hiding at home in the Champions League.
Celtic Park was a place known for famous victories over Europe’s elite in recent years. Celtic were being embarrassed all over their own park.
PSG went on to win 5-0, and Ralston’s Celtic career took a nosedive.
He couldn’t help Dundee United’s promotion bid in the Championship. He returned to Celtic and it looked like he didn’t have a future at Parkhead.
However, Ralston’s recent showings have given him real hope of a Celtic future.
The right back started and scored against Motherwell in December and followed up that performance with a good showing against Dundee.
He was a substitute at half-time against Rangers and was strong in the tackle in the defeat. He didn’t do himself any harm. Ironically, Alfredo Morelos did him more harm by stamping on him.
Ralston started against Airdrie on Saturday and he looked bright going forward and assured defensively. He won the sponsor’s man of the match award to cap off a fine showing.
He does have a future at Parkhead it would seem, if he can add consistency to his play.
Lets not get carried away
Although Ralston has been better in his recent showings, Celtic still have issues at right back.
Mikael Lustig won’t go on forever, and its still to be seen if Ralston has what it takes to take over from the Swedish international permanently.
Celtic need to bring in a quality right back to compete with Lustig. It’s been a problem position for Celtic for a while now and Brendan Rodgers must see it too.
Rumours linking Timothy Castagne to Celtic have gone quiet, and it looks like Ralston may be the deputy right back until the summer.