Celtic's Canadian Bhoy Leaves His Ibrox Counterpart In The Dust. He Is Destined For Greatness.
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I mentioned before the start of the game that the result would depend on which iteration of Celtic came to play. Ultimately, I believe we could have performed significantly better. Nevertheless, it did not make a difference because our superior performance led us to winning twice.
In the upcoming weeks, there will be ample opportunity to reflect on the past and I am excited to do so. We achieved many successes and encountered challenges along the way. However, achieving 93 points and winning both the title and the Scottish Cup is truly remarkable. Additionally, winning three matches and drawing one against the Ibrox team in the league, as well as triumphing over them in the cup final, is an exceptional feat.
Do you realize what this statistic highlights? Clement was extremely fortunate that Derek McInnes had eliminated us from the League Cup prior to his arrival. If not, Clement's performance against us would appear even more dismal and we would have rejoiced a complete treble yesterday.
Although our overall performance wasn't as amazing as we had expected, our ability to stay strong mentally made a significant impact. In addition, we have an exceptional team of skilled football players who are capable of winning important matches. The Ibrox team recognized the impressive performances of Bernardo and Idah during earlier games. Therefore, they should have been more aware of the potential threat when these players entered the game yesterday.
The outcome of these matches usually hinges on the actions of the star players, but occasionally it's the unsung heroes who steal the spotlight. In my opinion, the Celtic player who played the best during yesterday's game was widely overlooked and undervalued by the media.
The individual's given name is Alastair Johnston. I perceived him to be quite spectacular.
Typically during this time of year, when discussing our team's defensive skills, I often mention Carter Vickers. At this point, it feels as though I've praised him as much as possible, as he consistently delivers incredible performances. However, in our game yesterday, AJ contributed tremendously by effectively shutting down the opposition multiple times. Furthermore, he also proved to be a valuable asset when it came to our team's offensive plays.
Some people have a strange belief that once Tavernier leaves, anyone can claim the title of Scotland's top right-back. This is not accurate.
Since Tavernier joined Scotland, he hasn't been the top right back player. Other players like Frimpong, Juranovic, and AJ are better footballers and defenders than him, and this is well-known. It's a little bit silly that this conversation has even continued for this long. Even though Tavernier has been in the "team of the year" at the end of every season, it's obvious to many that there have been better players than him in the same position at Celtic Park.
When it comes to a Celtic defender, Alastair Johnston is the epitome of what I desire. His tenacity and valiance on the pitch, along with his strategic positioning and unwavering self-assurance, make him the complete package. Moreover, he kicked off his career in a significant match at Ibrox and exceeded expectations with his outstanding performance. Ever since then, he has only grown stronger and more skillful. I can hardly recall any occasions where he hasn't given his absolute best.
I've discussed Carter Vickers frequently, highlighting his warrior-like qualities. Well, this young lad is cut from the same cloth. He takes quite a beating out there on the pitch, putting himself in danger often, yet he soldiers on without faltering. He's a real workhorse, and his bravery is unmatched. It's clear that he has the potential to be a phenomenal leader - captain material, no doubt.
On important occasions with a lot on the line, he proves to be one of the most reliable players on the team. I cannot recall a single instance where he has made a critical mistake causing frustration or disappointment. Mistakes are inevitable for all players in his position, but the truly skilled ones are recognized by how infrequently they make them. Undoubtedly, he falls under the category of those highly competent players when it comes to this aspect.
All the members of the team from yesterday deserve recognition because it wasn't just a single game. It was the end of a very tough campaign where they were the ones leading the way. Some of them must be exhausted, and I hope they have a relaxing summer break. They definitely earned it. However, one player, in particular, played a vital role in the team during this period. And he had an exceptional performance yesterday, showing everyone how to handle pressure.
I feel fortunate to have this young man on our team. Although he may not excel at taking free kicks or penalties and isn't often talked about in the media, he is blossoming into an exceptional Celtic player. After watching the Legends game today, I'm starting to think he has the potential to become our strongest right back since Lustig and perhaps even surpass that remarkable athlete who has rightly earned a place among the greats.
I believe that Alastair Johnston will also agree with me.
It's absurd to think that Tavernier, who is already in the Ibrox Hall Of Fame, didn't get the recognition he deserved when he was younger. As the captain, he didn't win many trophies back then. However, things have changed, and now he has won four trophies in just 18 months. He is receiving a lot of praise for his recent performances, and it's only the beginning for him. He has the potential to achieve many more successes in the future.