Celtic registered another mammoth victory, defeating Kilmarnock in their own backyard by a 4-1 scoreline at the weekend. The impressive result against Derek McInnes’ side was another step in the right direction for Ange Postecoglou and company as they close in on their second consecutive Premiership title.
The defending Scottish champions are currently leading the table by 12 points with 32 games already played in the 2022/23 campaign. The Hoops have a heavy cushion. Realistically, two more wins should be enough to get over the line. And Postecoglou’s side have made their current position so comfortable in the league that they can now offer teenagers a chance or two in the senior side over the last few matches.
At the weekend, Rocco Vata and Ben Summers were handed playing time, which should be a boost to the confidence of the youngsters. Both were brought in as second-half substitutes with Celtic up 4-1 against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park.
Celtic fans will be delighted with Postecoglou’s latest comments
Following the win over Kilmarnock, Postecoglou acknowledged the efforts put in by the youngsters over the last few weeks and praised both. As reported by the Glasgow Times, the manager said:
"“Ben and Rocco have trained with us for quite a while.“It’s about earning their opportunities.“We have people out and Rocco came on and did the job.“Ben has been good, we’re really happy with his growth and the game time is a reward.”"
Both Vata and Summers have caught the eye of the spectators while playing for the developmental and youth sides. They are two of the brightest young prospects that the club and will hopefully develop into first-team stars one day.
Celtic play their last match in the first phase of the Scottish Premiership next Saturday as they face Motherwell. Postecoglou’s side will also lock horns with the Rangers in the semi-final of this season’s Scottish Cup the following weekend.
One thing that Celtic have been criticised for in recent years is not bringing through their youth stars into the senior team. Thus, it is promising to see them get chances under the management of Postecoglou.