Pundit issues emphatic Ange Postecoglou verdict after Sead Haksabanovic injury news from Celtic
Alan Hutton has applauded Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou for taking off Sead Haksabanovic at half time against Hibernian on Saturday (15 October).
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Rangers right-back said Postecoglou has once again shown the strength and depth the Hoops have at their disposal.
The 23-year-old was replaced by Daizen Maeda at half time in the 6-1 win over Hibs at the weekend.
Speaking to Celtic TV, quoted in the Daily Record (15 October), Postecoglou said Haksabanovic was nursing an ankle issue but was “really keen to play”.
The Green and Whites boss felt he was able to substitute the Montenegro international at half time with his side 3-0 up.
Hutton praised Postecoglou’s caution with the winger.
“You see what he is capable of,” he told Football Insider.
“A lot comes down the left hand side, his movement, his running, his ability to take players on. I know they do not want to risk Jota and bring him back too soon and they have got an able replacement there.
“If he is nursing an injury there is no point in stressing him in the second half. It was a good decision again from the manager. I think he has shown that tactically he will make subs and change the game.
“He has a lot of strength and depth there as we see from the bench so it is a good decision from him.“
Jota was not included in the matchday squad for the Hoops 4-0 Premier Sports Cup win over Motherwell on Wednesday (19 October).
But, as quoted by Football Scotland (18 October), Postecoglou insisted the winger is “close” to a return.
In other news, McAvennie issues verdict on Celtic potentially selling Cameron Carter-Vickers after ‘massive’ confession.