Taylor ready to fight off all rivals to retain first-team spot

GREG TAYLOR has had to overcome his fair share of adversity on his way to becoming a first-team regular at Celtic. Between forcing his way into the starting XI, fending off challenges from other left-backs for his place and winning over managers – and supporters – it has been far from plain sailing for the Scotland internationalist.

The likes of Boli Bolingoli and Diego Laxalt have been and gone and Taylor remains, fighting for his chance every week as he slowly wins the doubters around.

That still might not be enough for Taylor to hold on to his shirt – manager Ange Postecoglou has already outlined his intention to add reinforcements in the full-back positions – and the 24-year-old knows he cannot rest on his laurels if he wants to push on at Parkhead.

“Since I signed for Celtic, that’s been consistent in terms of other full-backs fighting for my position,” he said. “It’s the same with every position and it’s the way it will always be at a club of this size.

“Celtic will always be looking to improve. If that means someone comes in to take your position you have to be ready for that fight and hope to keep it.

“I don’t think it’s a case of seeing players off. I just work every day in trying to get picked on a weekend. As long as that keeps happening I’ll be pleased.

“If you think that way [that you are first pick in your position], you can get caught up in the moment and not focus on what’s important.”

Taylor tends to fly under the radar but that is just the way he likes it.

“I’m happy with that,” Taylor said. “Although I’d probably like to score a few more goals and then I’d get spoken about a bit more – but I don’t do that unfortunately!

“We’ve all got roles within the team and I think we’re all appreciated for the jobs we do.

“If I can continue to play a small part within the whole system, I’ll be happy. It has got us into a good position so far.”