Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Ralston delighted after Celtic changes give him another chance to shine
ANTHONY Ralston spoke of his rejuvenation under new Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou after fearing a Parkhead departure.
The 23-year-old rightback came through the club’s academy and had a loan spell at Queens Park before making his Hoops debut in May 2016 against St Johnstone.
However, after further loan spells at Dundee United and St Johnstone, and after making just one appearance last season against Livingston when Celtic were depleted due to Covid-19 issues, it looked like his time as a Hoops player could be up.
But a new lease of life under Postecoglou, who took over in the summer, has brought a new contract until 2025 as well as four goals in the cinch Premiership so far this season with Ralston also going on to make his Scotland debut in November to complete a remarkable turnaround in fortunes.
Ralston also picked up a Premier Sports Cup winners’ medal after Celtic beat Hibernian in the Hampden final earlier in the month.
Ralston said: “It was natural for me to think it (Celtic career) was coming to an end.
“I’ve been here since the age of eight and coming through all the years at the academy, it comes with a lot of ups and downs.
“It was a hard season last season, when you’re not playing and you’re not involved.
“I felt my time maybe had come to an end but when I got my opportunity, I wasn’t going to let it go.
“I’m delighted with how it’s gone so far but it’s important that I keep myself right, keep my head down and keep working.”
Postecoglou changed the way Celtic play with Ralston’s role as an inverted full-back a key part the Hoops’ high-tempo style of football.