Having played a starring role off the bench against The Accies in the weekend, the Scotland international earned high praise from his manager.
Neil Lennon was glowing in his assessment of Ryan Christie following Celtic’s 4-1 win against Hamilton Academical in the weekend, comparing him to Kevin De Bruyne for the ball that broke the deadlock.
A fantastic assist from Christie setup Christopher Jullien for Celtic’s second, which was quickly followed by two more goals because their opponents crumbled late on.
Talking to Celtic TV following the game, Lennon said: “His energy’s fantastic, his excitement’s fantastic but more than anything it is his quality.
“The quality of the ball to the next aim is De Bruyne-esque.
“Tom Rogic came on and did an excellent job, Jonny Hayes did an excellent job, but Ryan’s having a wonderful season and we’re going to see more of him as it goes on.”
Steven Gerrard’s side have a game in hand on their bitter rivals, but momentum has slowed lately.
Christie, meanwhile, has been instrumental in Celtic’s pursuit of the ninth consecutive league title, providing 10 goals and nine assists along the way.
Asked about the Hoops’ title chase after the match, Christie said: “Over the past few years, that is what has helped us push towards the finishing line, that mindset of a single match at a time.”
“We knew it was a big game [against Hamilton] and we were desperate for the 3 points. But there are a lot of games to go that we will need to keep churning out successes, hopefully, and see how far it takes us.”
Even more impressive is how it was Christie’s first game back after undergoing groin surgery at the turn of this year.
“I have been itching to get back in about it. The boys have been doing so well up until today but it was nice to come on and help to find a victory.
“That is my job, that is what I have to do. Especially, in games like that one when it is somewhat stuffy at 1-1. You must come off the bench and try to do something.
“To be honest, Jonny Hayes came off the bench and did very well as did Tom Rogic. That is what we aim to do, that is what the gaffer wants us to do. When we do it, we are happy.”
