It’s been a week to remember for Arne Engels, the Belgian midfielder who is fresh off the back of a standout performance in Thursday’s 4-0 win over Motherwell, Engels delivered yet another impressive display against St. Johnstone this afternoon, earning back-to-back Man of the Match awards as Celtic cruised to a 4-0 victory.
Engels was at the heart of everything positive for the Hoops. His delivery for Kyogo Furuhashi’s second-half goal was a moment of sheer quality, perfectly whipped into the danger zone for the Japanese talisman to convert. Beyond the assist, Engels consistently created havoc for the St. Johnstone defence, dictating the tempo and finding pockets of space with ease. From dazzling footwork to his precise passing, he orchestrated Celtic’s attacks and left fans buzzing about what he could bring to the Glasgow Derby on Thursday after a dip in form over the last month.
This run of form couldn’t come at a better time for Brendan Rodgers’ side. With a comfortable lead at the top of the table and Rangers struggling to find consistency, the Hoops are poised to make a statement at Ibrox. Engels’ creativity, combined with the lethal finishing of Kyogo and the relentless energy of Daizen Maeda, gives Celtic a cutting edge that could prove decisive.
The Derby is shaping up to be the ultimate test for this Celtic team, and with Engels pulling the strings in midfield, fans have every reason to feel optimistic.
The Belgian has gone from a player whose club-record transfer on deadline day was questioned to looking like a real contender to start against Philippe Clement’s side. With Engels well and truly back in top form after receiving such unnecessary criticism from those in the Scottish media over the last 6 weeks, he has hit back in style.
