18-year old striker Joey Dawson was a surprise admission to Ange Postecoglou’s squad when the team lines were released at 11:15 yesterday morning.
Not many would have been anticipating a debut, including Joey himself. However, the Englishman was called into action in the early stages of the first half after Kyogo Furuhashi failed to continue with his current hamstring injury.
Dawson was provided with the opportunity, and he played his part in a solid 3-1 win on Sunday afternoon, putting in a good first impression to the Celtic support.
As quoted by the Glasgow Times, the young frontman opened up on the days leading up this the Boxing Day fixture, revealing his delight at making his debut, just months after joining from English League Two side Scunthorpe.
However, he isn’t getting too ahead of himself, as he insisted he will stay grounded and work hard to earn another shot at the first team.
“Tommy, the B team manager, rang me on the 23rd, and he said obviously I can’t go home for Christmas because the first-team might need me.
“There was a bit of disappointment, but it was bittersweet because it’s all worth it today.
“It’s unbelievable and such a proud moment for me and my family.
“I’ve come a long way in a short space of time, so I just need to stay grounded and keep working hard to hopefully get more appearances.
“It’s massive for me making my Celtic debut at such a young age, it’s a great honour, but now I need to keep working hard.
‘Honestly, I probably didn’t think the debut would come this season, but in football, anything can happen.
“So that’s why I always have to be ready to take my chance, and hopefully, I did that today.”
Like several youngsters this campaign, Dawson has been working hard alongside his fellow academy teammates with Tommy McIntyre’s B side in the Lowland League.
It has provided a good opportunity for the likes of Owen Moffat to build and show their worth, for when the call comes from Ange Postecoglou in situations like Sunday’s.
Although it might not have been under the perfect circumstances, it was great to see the four youngsters on the bench as the Hoops delivered all three points on Boxing Day.
