Celtic’s Jota-inspired masterclass against Aberdeen is a statement that the best is still to come

Celtic ace Jota didn't disappoint after scoring in their 2-0 win against Aberdeen in their Premiership opener

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Celtic ace Jota didn't disappoint after scoring in their 2-0 win against Aberdeen in their Premiership opener

Stephen Craigan Twitter

August 06 2022 11:00 AM

As Rangers hunt for some consistency and continuity, city rivals Celtic had a perfect Premiership start last weekend against Aberdeen by securing three points and keeping a clean sheet.

There’s a look about Ange Postecoglou’s side that they mean business, and with the squad depth that he has, if you can’t produce the goods then there will always be someone waiting to take your place. That pressure gives an extra incentive for each player to perform and that is exactly what Celtic are benefiting from.

Postecoglou had a summer of bedding in new players and implementing a new style in 2021 but this time around they look like a well-oiled machine, ready to carry on from where they left off at the end of last season.

You only have to look at the bench afforded to the Celtic boss to tell you that their present position is very promising.

Established players like David Turnbull, Aaron Mooy, James Forrest, Giorgos Giakoumakis and Liel Abada who are all full internationals for their countries can’t get into the starting team currently.

It is a great position for the manager to be in and with a Champions League campaign to come, the complete squad will certainly be made full use of.

Jota’s permanent signing was on the club's radar all summer and following his performance last Sunday, it’s easy to see why.

He loves to entertain, he has lots of flair and his goal was just sublime. As has been seen a lot over the years, Celtic has been a great club for talented players to make their mark while at the same time capturing attentions from other clubs.

Victor Wanyama, Virgil van Dijk and Moussa Dembele spring to mind and I have no doubt Jota will do similar. The good thing for them is that they will reap the rewards from having him while he grows and progresses in his career.