Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Alan Galindo

Celtic player ratings vs Dundee United as Jota and Aaron Mooy shine in Tannadice triumph

Celtic restored their nine point lead over Rangers at the Premiership summit after a comfortable win over Dundee United.

The hosts held on tight in the opening 45 minutes but the Hoops grabbed two quick-fire goals at Tannadice in the second period to put the game out of sight. First up Aaron Mooy delivered a stunning deep cross to the back post that Jota was on hand to turn home from a very, very tight angle for the opener just minutes after the restart.

Moments later the goalscorer turned provider as he forced a handball out of Kieran Freeman and following a VAR check whistler Don Robertson correctly pointed to the spot. Mooy - who has been in stunning form since the World Cup return - made no mistake as he sent Mark Birighitti the wrong way to double the champions' advantage and maintain his 100 per cent record from 12-yards. Victory means Ange Postecoglou once again denies Michael Beale and his Light Blues side the chance to claw back some points in the race for the title - despite an unbeaten start to life at Ibrox. Here's how we rated the league leaders.

READ MORE: Dundee United 0 Celtic 2 as McGregor hits new milestone, VAR does its job - 3 things we learned

Joe Hart - 6

Quiet afternoon for the former England No1. No real saves of note.

Alistair Johnston - 6

Started Celtic career really well. Early marker laid down to be the main man after Josip Juranovic departure.

Cameron Carter-Vickers - 6

Key man returned after missing last few games. An ever-present under Ange Postecoglou. Calm and composed. No real threats.

Carl Starfelt - 6

Another mainstay when fit. Looks much more relaxed alongside CCV. Likes to pass out from the back.

Greg Taylor - 6

One of Celtic's best performers this season. Back in after a short time out injured. Always up and down the park. Works hard.

Callum McGregor - 6

400th appearance for the Hoops and at 29 you wouldn't rule him out of a few hundred more at least. So important to side.

Reo Hatate - 6

Part of key midfield trio. Works tirelessly. Great eye for a pass. Close to a goal in first half but shot wide. Subbed.

Aaron Mooy - 8

Keeping Matt O'Riley out of the team after excellent run of form. Brings a real calmness on the ball. Stunning cross for Jota's opener. Scored penalty. Subbed.

Liel Abada - 6

Real live wire. Constant threat with direct running style. Keeps opposition busy with cleaver movement and pace. Subbed.

Jota - 9

Forced brilliant save from United No1. Constant threat with tricks and flicks. Scored opener from incredible angle. Major role to win penalty after Kieran Freeman handball. Subbed.

Kyogo Furuhashi - 7

Stunning return of 20 goals so far this season which matches his total for whole of last term. No goal here but constant threat. Subbed.

Subs

Daizen Maeda - 4

On as part of a triple change. A great season to date. Will be pushing for a start midweek. Should have scored at the death.

Matt O'Riley - 4

Finding himself out of the team at the moment and a real fight to get back in.

David Turnbull - 4

Scored in the Scottish Cup win over Morton. Been on the fringes. Looking to impress at every opportunity.

Sead Haksabanovic - 2

Back from injury and another 10+ minutes under the belt. On too late to stamp his authority on game.

Oh Hyeon-gyu - 2

On for final stages for Celtic debut. A moment to remember for the new recruit. Cracking cross but Maeda missed target.

READ MORE:

- Scott Brown in Celtic 'inspiration' billing as Kieran Tierney puts ex-captain beside Parkhead legend

- Kieran Tierney Arsenal latest as Serie A giants 'ready to contend' for Celtic hero if made available

- Josip Juranovic details Celtic transfer exit options as he reveals why he chose Union over 'bigger' clubs

- Giorgos Giakoumakis Celtic exit twist as Atlanta come back in with firm bid after striker passes Urawa medical

- We simulated Oh Hyeon-gyu's first season for Celtic and he helped the Hoops to Treble success

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.