Erik Sviatchenko tips midfielder to replace Tom Rogic at Celtic

Under the management of Ange Postecoglou, Celtic have made some outstanding signings so far. And that is one of the primary reasons why they were able to turn their fortunes around completely last season and ended up winning a Premiership and League Cup double. One of those signings was Matt O’Riley. The arrival of the 21-year-old midfielder might have raised a few eyebrows in January but it has proven to be a masterstroke over time.

It is believed that the Scottish giants ended up paying a transfer fee around £1.5 million to sign O’Riley from MK Dons, and that has to be considered a bargain after the quality and potential he has shown.

The move appeared to be a step-up for the midfielder, jumping from English League One to the Scottish Premiership, but he has certainly dealt with it expertly.

Not only has he managed to make an impression for Celtic, but he is also making his mark for the Denmark under-21 team, having chosen to represent the country over England. And it appears that Erik Sviatchenko has high hopes for the youngster, who will be looking to make it into the national team set up ahead of the Qatar World Cup.

Midfielder backed to replace Tom Rogic at Celtic

As reported by The Celtic Way, Sviatchenko said about O’Riley:

"“I know it is O’Riley’s dream to play for Denmark in the World Cup finals in Qatar later this year. He has performed well for the under-21s and he scored his first goal in midweek against Turkey. He has done magnificently well for Celtic and you have to say he is now knocking on the door of the full Danish international squad.”"

He also believes that there is no reason for O’Riley to not be able to fill the void left behind by Rogic at Celtic:

"“He reminds me a bit of Tom Rogic. It is still early days in his Celtic career but there is no reason he can’t fill that role vacated by Rogic this summer after nine years of wonderful service to the club.“Celtic are in a good position as they have lost such a big player in Rogic but it is nice to think they have a ready-made replacement coming into the team. O’Riley has the same stature as Rogic as he is tall and has good dribbling skills and he can dictate the tempo of matches. He has real vision and an eye for a pass. I don’t want to put on unnecessary pressure but I do see a lot of Rogic in him.”"

Considering that the 21-year-old has not made his full international debut for Denmark yet, he will have to impress immensely for Celtic for the national team manager to give him a call up ahead of the Qatar World Cup.

With Rogic leaving the club, and David Turnbull not looking like the perfect fit for Postecoglou’s system, O’Riley might have a big chance to shine for Celtic next season and stake his claim.