Celtic star has showcased key attribute which could prove crucial against RB Leipzig

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Since his arrival in the summer transfer window, Celtic winger Sead Haksabanovic has left fans impressed with some of his impressive displays.

The Rubin Kazan man has found a starting spot hard to come by so far but has made a strong impression off the bench.

Following those good performances, the versatile winger was handed his first Scottish Premiership start against St Johnstone last weekend.

And the 23-year-old looked to have left another good impression on Ange Postecoglou and the Celtic support, playing his part in the Hoops’ 2-1 win in Perth.

Haksabanovic set up the opening goal, making a clever run in behind the Saints’ defence before his powerful, low cross into the box found the back of the net via Andy Considine.

Although the Montenegro international might be a winger by trade, last weekend, he showcased his ability to play in multiple positions, starting the game as part of Ange Postecoglou’s midfield three.

Alongside Matt O’Riley and Reo Hatate, Haksabanovic picked up some nice positions and helped the Bhoys create plenty of chances throughout the game.

As mentioned, Celtic supporters were aware of the winger’s ability to play in the middle of the pitch. But I’m not sure we were aware of how well he could play that position.

Saturday’s game showed us he is more than capable of playing as a number eight for Celtic in Postecoglou’s system.

Haksabanovic’s versatility could prove crucial to the Celtic boss.

In my opinion, for the match against RB Leipzig tomorrow evening, Ange Postecoglou will start with a midfield three of Oliver Abildgaard, Matt O’Riley and Reo Hatate.

Although Haksabanovic doesn’t fit into that picture, he does still provide the Celtic manager with a valuable option off the bench.

Currently, the only other standout option off the bench in the number eight role is David Turnbull, who will be hoping to make his return from illness tomorrow.

However, Postecoglou will is now likely to have Haksabanovic in his thoughts after another impressive runout, but this time in the centre of the pitch.

The ex-West Ham man showcased all the right attributes on the ball that the 57-year-old would have been looking for, and he gave the opposition defence plenty to worry about with his ability on the ball, driving at players.

So, it is definitely fair to say that Haksabanovic will be in Postecoglou’s thinking, and his versatility could have a big part to play if the Hoops hope to get anything out of tomorrow evening’s match.

In other news, Stephen Welsh praises Celtic ‘leader’ who looks set to fill crucial captaincy role.