ANTHONY RALSTON has taken a lot of abuse from a certain section of the support. We have always maintained Celtic need a new right back and any critique we’ve had of the defender has been measured and hasn’t wandered into personal attacks like we’ve seen on social media.
Right now, Anthony is making us eat our words and I couldn’t be happier for him. The right back has come in and really put in some good to great performances so far this season.
Does it mean I think the Celtic academy bhoy is the full time answer to the position? No. Is his current form allowing me to re-think his position in the squad as a whole? Absolutely.
Tony is showing a lot right now and if he continues the player could be a valuable squad member who can share the right back position. Celtic’s schedule is always hectic, especially if we get into a European competition. There’s no reason Anthony can’t be part of the squad and do his bit this season.
Speaking after the Dundee game, the Celtic player was delighted to see everything click for the team. It was Anthony’s second SPFL start of the season and his second SPFL goal, both goals have been real quality striker finishes. Long may his good form continue.
“It was really good, it was a great feeling for all the boys. We’ve put a lot of work in over the pre-season, on the manager’s ideas of how he wants us to play. So it was great to see everything coming together today.” Tony told RecordSport.
Ralston and Mikey Johnston making their debuts under Brendan Rodgers
“The boys up front were brilliant and we were solid as a defensive unit. We were all really happy with the performance. Everything clicked in to place. We’ve been working hard in training and analysing a lot on how we want to play. It’s just nice to go in to a game and put it all together.
“It’s important we kick on now and keep playing the right way with intent, as the results will come. The clean sheet was pleasing. We defended well as a back four and goalkeeper, but also as a team. The pressing front to back as a unit was brilliant and it’s important we keep that going in the future,”
On his personal form, the defender knows he needs to keep his head down and keep going. Ange Postecoglou has given him a new role which doesn’t involve hugging the touchline and Tony is enjoying himself.
“I never thought my left foot was much use! I’m delighted to get another goal. The most important thing is contributing to the team.
“Hopefully I can continue. I’ve just had to stay focused when I’ve been out of the team and work hard behind the scenes to be as fit as possible, so when the chance came I was able to take it.
“I kept myself right and fortunately I have had the opportunity this season. I’m enjoying playing and being in the team. I just need to make sure I keep the right mindset in each game and in training. It’s a new role for me to play this way but I’m really enjoying it. It’s a free role to get inside and get on the ball and be involved.”
