Celtic have managed to gain a two-point advantage in the Premiership title race after the latest round of fixtures. The Hoops were able to stage a late comeback against Hamilton as they secured full points after Rangers dropped points in the fixture against Aberdeen. This Celtic team seems to be filled with match-winners, and someone or the other often steps up during clutch situations.
The Hoops were passive for most parts of the tie against Hamilton. However, one player who once again looked sharp was Ryan Christie. His energy, movement and ability to drive the ball forward with intensity are special. He also regularly gets on the goals and assists chart. What a turnaround it has been for the attacking midfielder who was out of the picture just until last season.
Alan Hutton shares Rangers’ concerns for the final
Former Rangers defender and Scotland international Allan Hutton recently indicated that Christie is someone who the Bears would have to look out for in the final.
Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton said, ”Intelligent movement, intelligent runs, always seems to be in the right place at the right time, everything seems to flow through him. He’s really one of the top players for Celtic at the moment, and he’s going to be, him and Forrest, are the ones we (Rangers) are going to have to look out for at the weekend.”
Why can Christie be the difference-maker?
His ability to stretch play and his constant movement could trouble the Rangers defence. Christie also has the pace to cause issues to the likes of Helander and Goldson, and we believe that Hutton is spot on with his assessment that Christie could be the difference-maker for the Bhoys.
Christie was on the fringes of the squad at the start of the 2018-19 season, but he managed to prove himself and that even earned him a new contract. Many expected him to part ways with the Hoops at one point, but by sheer hard work, the Scotsman has managed to establish himself in the squad. Now he keeps the likes of Rogic and Ntcham out of the team. Lennon has also gone on to use him in the wide areas, but it is as a no. 10 where Christie can cause the most havoc.
The versatile attacker already has 16 goals and ten assists in all competitions this season. More than his goals sometimes, his endless running and pressing from the top creates problems to the opposition defence. Hence, it is no surprise to see him worrying the Rangers faithful at the moment.
