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Ross County boss Malky Mackay says Celtic have reached a new level as they prepare for Scottish Premiership clash in Dingwall


By Andrew Henderson

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Ross County manager Malky Mackay believes his counterpart at Celtic, Ange Postecoglou, has brought tomorrow’s visitors to Dingwall up to a whole new level.

Picture - Ken Macpherson. Ross County(0) v Celtic(2). 24.04.22. Ross County manager Malky Mackay.
Picture - Ken Macpherson. Ross County(0) v Celtic(2). 24.04.22. Ross County manager Malky Mackay.

Celtic regained the Scottish Premiership crown last season, finishing four points ahead of fierce rivals Rangers.

That was Postecoglou’s first season in charge at Parkhead, and Mackay believes the impact of the Australian manager has been clear to see – although he is out to stop his former club this weekend.

“Ange has taken Celtic to another level again – that’s great credit to him as a coach,” Mackay insisted.

“He’s had the strength of character and leadership, the backbone, to come in from the other side of the world and be a success in one of the most high-pressure jobs in football.

“It’s not easy to stand in those shoes, but he has recruited well and imposed his style of football, which is clear to see.

“It is a very distinct style they’ve got, which is something we aspire to.

“Yes, we are a small team in the Highlands. We know where we are budget-wise in this league, but it is my job to ensure we have a journey here to make sure we have one of the best teams in Scotland – and last year we proved we were one of the best teams in this country.”

One of Postecoglou’s signings that will be a danger to the Staggies will be Matt O’Riley, with Mackay having been impressed by the former MK Dons man’s performances.

“He is one of those diamonds you talk about finding,” Mackay said.

“They are not easy to get, and right now even less so because the world is looking for Jamie Vardy.

“I think he’s a wonderful young player. I even enjoy the fact that he’s decided to go and play for Denmark, that he’s confident enough to throw his hat in there.

“To go into that Celtic team as a young squad player and make the impact he’s had and show that he thinks he should be playing every week, knowing that club the way I do, is a great credit to him.”


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