Opportunity Knocks

Ryan Christie is eager to play his part in the Hoops’ push for success this season, and took his chance when it presented itself at Murrayfield.

- Tony Connelly

THERE is added pressure within small windows of opportunity which can make for a daunting task when trying to break into a Double Treble-winning side. Ryan Christie isn’t one for shying away from those intense situations, though. The Celtic midfielder has not only shown an ability to deal with the pressure, but that he can thrive in it too.

Last week was a big one for the 23-year-old. He was named in the starting XI for Celtic’s Europa League game against RB Leipzig and, three days later, he lit up the League Cup semi-final with a sensational second-half performance that booked Celtic’s place in the final, where they will face Aberdeen.

No-one appreciates the highs of that game more than Christie. It’s been a long road for the Bhoy from Inverness. The strength of the Hoops squad, and the success that the team have achieved over the last two seasons, have set the bar high for those jostling for a regular place in Brendan Rodgers’ side.

Christie showed his ability to meet those standards in Sunday’s 3-0 win against Hearts at Murrayfield. With the score level at 0-0 after the first 45 minutes, he came on for the start of the second half in place of Olivier Ntcham.

Within eight minutes of the re-start, Celtic got the breakthrough and it was Christie who made it possible after Oliver Bozanic brought him down in the box, handing the Hoops a penalty which Scott Sinclair coolly converted.

James Forrest slotted home from close-range for the second goal after Hearts keeper Zdenek Zlamal failed to hold on to Christie’s shot from distance. And then Christie produced a stunning goal, firing home from the edge of the area to set the seal on a stunning display.