Celtic player ratings vs Aberdeen as Callum McGregor…

Celtic player ratings vs Aberdeen as Callum McGregor the hero in late Pittodrie triumph

Callum McGregor was the Celtic hero as he fired home with three minutes to play for a priceless win at Aberdeen.

The Hoops controlled the contest throughout this one and got their reward through their returning influential skipper as they restored their nine point lead over Rangers at the top following their 3-2 success over Hibs on Thursday night. It was a difficult test for the champions but another one they have come through as they get their season back up and running in perfect fashion.

That makes it 15 wins and just one defeat in the Premiership for Ange Postecoglou's men in their quest to lift back to back Scottish league titles. Here is how we rated the away side at Pittodrie.

Joe Hart - 5

Rarely tested and anything he had to deal with done comfortably. Calm head at the back.

Anthony Ralston - 6

Big afternoon with Josip Juranovic transfer talk rumbling on and Alistair Johnston signed and waiting in the wings. Did well.

Cameron Carter-Vickers - 6

USA World Cup star a key figure of Ange Postecoglou's backline. Not his busiest of games defensively with Hoops largely in control.

Carl Starfelt - 6

Back in the side after a spell out injured. Commanding in the air and works well with Carter-Vickers. Dealt with pace of Duk.

Greg Taylor - 6

Arguably Celtic's player of the year to date. A brilliant transformation to his game. Again, another good performance. Full of running.

Callum McGregor - 8

Influential skipper back in. Major boost for Celtic. Calm and composed figure as always. Always on the ball making things tick. Grabbed late winner on perfect return.

Matt O'Riley - 5

Final touch let him down on more than one occasion. Not his best game.

Reo Hatate - 6

Denied by a brilliant save from Roos. Been a big player in the last 12 months. Subbed.

Jota - 5

Tested Roos with an effort after 15 mins. Full of tricks and flicks but no big moment to decide this one. Subbed.

Daizen Maeda - 5

Back from Japan World Cup duty and straight back in. Hooked at half-time.

Kyogo Furuhashi - 5

Quiet day by his standards. Great run and rounded keeper after 25 minutes but effort cleared. Big chance in early stages of second half but failed to connect. Subbed.

Subs

Liel Abada - 6

On at the break. Set up huge chance for Kyogo after getting on Ralston pass. Always looks a threat with direct running style. Denied late on with smart stop.