Celtic were back in action tonight in the aftermath of conquering a historic ‘quadruple treble’ defeating Hearts in the 2019-20 Scottish Cup final. They could not afford to drop more points in the league with Rangers flying high at the top of the standings and the Bhoys did not disappoint this time around with a commanding 2-0 win versus Ross County.
Below are the Celtic players rated in their comprehensive win against Ross County.
Conor Hazard: 8
The youngster has cemented his place over Vasilios Barkas and enjoyed a comfortable outing between the sticks with little threat posed by the visitors. A well-deserved cleansheet following weekend’s ‘goals galore’ contest against Hearts.
Jeremie Frimpong: 8.5
Stunning from his right fullback role with persistent overlapping runs, cut insides and take-ons. Created most chances in the match (Fotmob) and did exceptionally well to set it up for Turnbull midway through the first half.
Christopher Jullien: 7
Much better from the Frenchman who was dreadful a month ago in Celtic’s shocking Scottish League Cup exit against the Staggies. Was spot on with his tackles, dealt well with Ross Stewart’s pace and down the middle runs, also exhibited his supremacy in the air.
Kristoffer Ajer: 8
Not only did he perform his defensive duties but also succeeded with his dribbling attempts out from the back to create chances high up the pitch. Won the majority of duels and showed great passing traits all throughout the game.
Diego Laxalt: 7
Laxalt, too, was instrumental from the left-hand flank with timely runs, crosses and link-up play. Has struggled so far since joining on loan from AC Milan, but the Uruguay international should regain some rhythm following tonight’s encounter.
Ismaila Soro: 7.5
Settling down well in place of veteran Scott Brown and showed his composure from deep down the midfield with passing and possessional football. Lost a few duels but made an array of recoveries to avoid trouble refraining the Staggies from settling down in the centre of the pitch.
Ryan Christie: 8
The versatile Scotsman was effective from the wide, kept on changing his position frequently, also laid on an exquisite assist for Griffiths to double the lead just over the hour mark. Made way for Tom Rogic with around 20 minutes remaining.
David Turnbull: 8.5
In spite of lacking accuracy with his own crosses, the young Scotsman was smart enough to convert Frimpong’s cross to score his first league goal in Celtic colours. The ex-Motherwell prodigy has been a revelation in the attacking midfield slot who once again left his mark before making way for Olivier Ntcham.
Callum McGregor: 7.5
The versatile midfield ace started from the left but provided necessary cover to Soro who was deployed in the ‘hole’. Tested Ross Laidlaw once in the Staggies’ goal, also combined with his teammates in midfield as well as attacking third to create chances upfront.
Leigh Griffiths: 7.5
Showing some scoring form as he nodded home to double the lead after picking up Christie’s cross. A much-needed boost for the ‘number 9’ who has now fired in on back to back occasions. Made way for Albian Ajeti late in the match.
Odsonne Edouard: 6.5
Had a couple of attempts on target, but the Frenchman is lacking sharpness upfront even though he is working hard to re-discover his scoring form. Made way for Michael Johnston with around 20 minutes remaining.
Celtic Ratings vs Ross County
Michael Johnston: 6.5
An excellent cameo from the youngster who is regaining his fitness after a long injury lay off.
Tom Rogic: 5.5
Enjoyed his time on the pitch as he tried to create a few chances from outside the box.
Olivier Ntcham: 6.5
Impressive since coming on as he mostly operated in the advanced areas of the pitch.
Albian Ajeti: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
