Celtic academy graduate Rocco Vata scored his first senior goal in football this afternoon. It came in the second half of the Hoops’ 5-0 rout of Buckie Thistle.
Vata’s fellow academy graduate, Mikey Johnston, showed brilliant skill on the right-hand side before cutting back for the 18-year-old who couldn’t miss from a minimal distance:
A first @CelticFC goal for Rocco Vata!
An assist from Mikey Johnston means the Irish connection make it 5-0 🇮🇪#ScottishCup | @ScottishCup pic.twitter.com/u27tVnGN2t
— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) January 21, 2024
The youngster’s strike today comes amid a wealth of speculation surrounding his future. There was reported interest from Italy, and an exit seemed likely, although Anthony Joseph revealed midweek Celtic were keen to open talks over a new deal for Vata.
It seemed an intriguing coincidence that he was included in the team today after this news, and his cameo was hugely impressive.
In just over 25 minutes, Vata proved himself up top as a valid option up top, bagging a goal that could’ve been one of many. The teenager showed pace, power, and hunger, and was very encouraging.
His situation is undoubtedly one to keep an eye on in the coming weeks before the January transfer window comes to an end.
