The contrast to the beginning of last season is stark with Celtic having already secured Champions League football with a settled squad of players. 

Ange Postecoglou once again used the rollercoaster analogy on Friday that it’s all about the feeling you have once you come off the ride after having ups and downs.

Aberdeen will be a tough opponent but there’s no need to throw in players for the first time like Postecoglou had to against Hearts on opening day last year.

Michael Stewart like many pundits in Scottish football have grown to appreciate how good a coach Postecoglou is and the job he has done in just 12 months.

“The new cinch Premiership is upon us and it promises to be interesting in so many different ways. In life they say two things are certain, death and taxes but in Scottish football we’ve become so used to seeing the green hoops of Celtic lifting the title that it almost feels a given,” said Michael Stewart speaking in The Times.

Celtic have been the dominant force in the country for over a decade winning countless trophies along with a historic Quadruple Treble. Ten titles in eleven seasons is a phenomenal return and the players know the expectation to once again deliver success for the football club.

With the World Cup coming halfway through the campaign, the Hoops now have a squad that should be able to cope with any injuries that may occur.

“This time though we have a mid-season World Cup to contend with and the uncertainty that may bring could challenge what we’ve become accustomed to.

“Celtic will have a number of players away in Qatar and hope they don’t suffer any injuries, but they’ve got real strength in depth now to potentially deal with those issues. This is all in stark contrast to 12 months ago when Ange Postecoglou walked into Celtic Park and a mammoth rebuild was needed. Now it’s subtle additions.”

It was vitally important that the Scottish Champions held on to those who had made a big impact last season with Stewart praising the additions to the Celtic side so far.

“The best business done was getting Jota and Cameron Carter-Vickers signed on permanent deals. This is now the manager’s third transfer window and each one has been a success, which stands them in good stead to tackle the challenges ahead.”

CELTIC’S TRANSFER STATUS

Celtic aren’t finished in the transfer market and may look to add a bit of further depth to the side before the window closes at the end of August.

The Hoops have made six permanent signings this window along with the arrival of German defender Mortitz Jenz on loan.

The rollercoaster is about to take off so it’s time to strap yourself in for the ride!

 

 

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