Conor Hazard played the full 90 minutes for HJK Helsinki as he picked up further experience at the top end of club football.
The on loan Celtic goalkeeper was between the stick as his current side went down to Real Betis in their Europa League opener. Willian Jose was the hero for the La Liga side as he netted twice past the Northern Ireland international to pick up all three points on the opening matchday in the section.
It's these kind of experiences Ange Postecoglou and his management team will be delighted to see the young goalkeeper pick up as he continues to pick up vital top team action. The 24-year-old has been an ever-present during his loan stint after making the move to the Finnish side on a one-year loan back in January. The young Irish keeper made his Celtic debut in the 3-2 UEFA Europa League win over French outfit, Lille in December 2020, and has went on to make seven top team appearances including the re-arranged 2019/20 Scottish Cup final against Hearts. He kept four clean sheets in that run of games.
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Speaking at the time of his move, Postecoglou said: "We are sure this move will be good for Conor, it will be an important opportunity for game-time and I know he will embrace this next period.
“In HJK Helsinki we believe it will be a great environment for him.
“I know HJK and Celtic have enjoyed good co-operation before and I think the loan period will be very positive for everyone concerned.
“We all wish Conor the very best.”
Hazard will also come up against Ludogoretz Razgard and Italian giants Roma in the section.
Jose Mourinho's men lifted the Europa Conference League trophy last season but also lost out in their first game in Group C.
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