ANGE POSTECOGLOU is keen on making a pathway to the first team for the B team players, something which Celtic have struggled with in recent years.
There’s a worry that Celtic might struggle to meet the UEFA requirements in regard to homegrown players in the coming years if the Hoops continue on the same pathway with very few academy players making an impact on the first team.
Ange’s future planning will start to bear fruit within the next year, with the boss predicting fans will start to see B team players regularly appearing in matchday squads in the next 6-12 months.
Speaking on Friday, Ange Postecoglou said: [Celtic TV]
“As I have said before, opportunities are earned and nothing is given. If one of the players from the B team gets an opportunity, it is because they have earned it, not because I feel they need to be given time.
“Bosun Lawal and Rocco Vata have been involved in and around the first team for quite a while now. Unfortunately, Rocco Vata has picked up a little bit of an injury so he will be out for a little while. I am really happy with the progress the B team is making. Darren [O‘Dea] and Stephen [McManus] are doing a really good job.
“I don‘t just think we are developing some good players down there but we are also developing some good coaches. Over the next 6–12 months, I expect some of those players to get opportunities. Not because I am kind–hearted, mate, it is because it will have been earned. “
Rocco Vata has already been given his senior debut under Ange, while Bosun Lawal and Tobi Oluwayemi, who’s now out on loan, have appeared in a few matchday squads.
Celtic fans are desperate to see their academy graduates thrive in the first team, and if they impress Ange in training, he’s more than willing to give them an opportunity to impress.
