Giorgos Giakoumakis reacts after scoring first Celtic goal

It is safe to say that Celtic fans have had to wait to see Giorgos Giakoumakis in action. But it looks like the wait might very well have been worth it as the Greek striker scored on his first start for the Hoops, against St Johnstone.

Giakoumakis arrived on transfer deadline day this summer and came in with huge expectations. And that was not a surprise considering he was coming off of an incredible 2020/21 campaign, when he had finished as the top scorer in the Eredivisie and by some distance.

Giakoumakis struggled to get up to match speed after arriving though and a lot of fans were already worried about the summer signing. On his first appearance for the club, he also looked rusty, which did not help matters.

But since the end of the recent international break, he has looked brilliant and managed to find the back of the net on his first start for Celtic. After the game, as reported by 67 Hail Hail, he told BBC Radio Scotland:

"“It’s amazing. It’s an amazing feeling and something I was missing so much. It took time for me to get back fit and to participate in the games. Finally, I’m getting closer.“I’m not really a patient guy, so for me, it was a little bit difficult. I worked hard and I’m much better. Day by day, game by game I’m feeling better and better.“I’m not getting crazy, I’m focused on helping the team, not just by scoring goals but doing other things on the field.”"

Giakoumakis has impressed for Celtic in his recent appearances

Giakoumakis had looked very sharp while coming off the bench the last couple of times and got the nod from the start against St Johnstone. And it is safe to say that he made his opportunity count.

He found himself in the right place when Anthony Ralston put in a cross from the right and finished brilliantly on the first time past Zander Clark.

It is safe to say that he gives Celtic a very different option up front. The Greek striker does not have the movement of Kyogo but he is a physical presence who can hold up the ball and find the back of the net.

His strengths are different to every other striker at the club and that is always a good thing. Ange Postecoglou must be delighted to have him fit and in his squad.