Ange Postecoglou is “not the least surprised” by Aaron Mooy’s growing influence on his Celtic side and expects it to become even stronger.
The 32-year-old Australia midfielder had a slow start to his Hoops career after joining from Chinese Super League team Shanghai Port last summer.
However, he has developed into a fans’ favourite and was instrumental in the 4-1 win over St Johnstone at McDiarmid Park on Sunday.
The playmaker was involved in the first two goals and scored the third in the Parkhead side’s convincing victory which moved the Hoops nine points clear of Rangers at the top of the Premiership with 13 fixtures remaining.
Mooy’s perfect lob over Saints goalkeeper Remi Matthews to make it 3-1 in the first half was his sixth goal in nine games and Postecoglou waxed lyrical about the former St Mirren, Huddersfield and Brighton player afterwards.
The Celtic boss said: “He is just a quality footballer. I am not the least surprised by him.
“I know what is in there and there is a lot more to come. His influence is growing.
“On that pitch, where even good players were struggling, every time he got the ball he was so sure-footed and he kept the ball.
“His balance is unbelievable. He is really strong in terms of his core strength and on days like Sunday you give him the ball and not only will he keep it, he will take the right option.”
Grem
Roar Rookie
Surely we’re ready for Cameron Devlin or Cameron Niewenhoff to be given some time at 6. Then we need to fit 2 of Irvine, Mooy and Hrujstic in front. There’s also Bacchus, who played well at the World Cup. The midfield looks OK. And I’m sure there’s a few I haven’t mentioned.
Sheffield WesDay
Roar Rookie
Only if he is deployed further up the pitch. He can’t have that influence as the 6 for the Socceroos.
Grem
Roar Rookie
And this will hopefully continue into our World Cup qualifiers and Asian Championship. His form is good for our Socceroos.
Coastyboi
Guest
Mooy has gone from go to whoa! His assists were sublime. Top goal too. Cool as a cucumber.
Realist
Roar Rookie
Mooy is a perfect example of why Ange is such a successful Manager. His superior man management skills enable him to get the best out of his Players and as a result they Play for him, not in spite of him like Players do under a Manager like Mourihno.