Celtic do not have a great recent record when it comes to giving chances to their academy graduates to establish themselves in the senior team. As a result, many of them have ended up leaving the club early on in their careers, rather than waiting on the B Team, hoping for their opportunity to come around.
For quite a few, things have not exactly worked out, even after leaving. On the other hand, there have been some who have succeeded after departing Celtic.
Rocco Vata does seem to fall in the latter category. A B Team standout and the son of Rudi Vata, most fans want to see him get a proper chance in the first-team. Unfortunately, he did not get that and left the club last summer.
Vata ended up joining Watford and has been successful in establishing himself as a starter for the Hornets in the English Championship. Unexpectedly, he made a visit to Celtic Park at the weekend and posted a picture on his Instagram story.
Former Celtic player makes unexpected Parkhead visit
Of course, Vata came through the youth ranks at Celtic and his father also played for the club. So, that connection will always remain there, no matter where he ends up playing.
The good is, it does look like things are working out for Vata down in England. He has made 37 appearances this season, scoring 4 goals and providing 4 assists as well. He has also made an appearance for the Ireland national team.
One could point out that Watford are a mid-table side in the Championship, having finished 14th this season. But perhaps that is where Vata needs to be at this point in his career, in order to get consistent playing time, before making the jump to a top-flight side or promotion contenders.