Ange Postecoglou has described Tom Rogic as Celtic’s Special One and believes that the best is still to come from the midfielder.
Just over a year ago it seemed like the Australian’s career at Celtic was over when an offer was accepted from the middle east with Neil Lennon looking to put his own stamp on the team.
Rogic took a look at what was on offer but decided that at the age of 27 he still had something to offer at Celtic.
Last season was another one of frustration as he drifted in and out of the Celtic side, scoring in the San Siro but unable to halt the sad slide that saw Lennon resign with a massive turnover of players in the summer.
The arrival of Postecoglou couldn’t have been predicted but reunited with his former international boss there have been signs of the old Rogic and his match-winning ways.
Jota’s pass for Kyogo’s goal against Ferencvaros has drawn plenty of attention but a couple of days earlier it was Rogic that was weaving magic with a defence splitting pass for Jota to open the scoring against Motherwell.
The fitness issues haven’t quite been resolved but discussing the midfielder, Postecoglou told the Glasgow Times:
I know Tom well and have always felt that he’s got a something special about him. He’s one of those players who most people would say they enjoy watching.
He’s just got something different about him. Yes he’s had some issues but sometimes I think he’s one of the players who people want to put in a certain box.
Throughout his career, he’s done some remarkable things. He’s had a fantastic career here with Celtic. You don’t stay at a football club like this unless you have something to offer.
I still think there’s more to come. He’s only 28. In many respects his best football years could be ahead of him. Hopefully that continues.
He’s now beyond the 50 cap mark with Australia which isn’t easy. To travel from this side of the world to play for Australia is a lot more challenging than maybe some other national teams.
He’s done remarkably well. He’s become a senior member here at Celtic and with the national team. At both club and international level, he’s got plenty to offer for both teams.
Alongside Callum McGregor and David Turnbull Rogic has started three matches in eight days following an international double dunt- something that would have been unthinkable in previous seasons.