Followers of Celtic would likely need a lengthy list to reel off all the positives during Ange Postecoglou's thrilling stint at the helm.
A trio of trophies secured playing a brand of football punters adore – it's been a time to savour since the wildly popular Australian took the top job in the summer of 2021. A Treble remains on with a nine–point advantage over Rangers and a meeting with their rivals in the semi-final of the Scottish Cup looming.
There are many factors at play behind Postecoglou's seismic success but the the glory has certainly been aided by an uncanny knack for nailing his recruitment. The success stories are multiple from Kyogo's goals to Cameron Carter Vickers' steel with countless others thriving including, but not limited to, Aaron Mooy, Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda.
And Tomoki Iwata is aiming to add to Postecoglou's glistening track record for procuring talent as the J-League player of the year bides his time to underline his bonafide credentials. Iwata has impressed as an impact substitute but could be in line for a starring role with the aforementioned Mooy and Hatate's status for a trip to Ross County up in the air. Hatate appears a long shot to make the trip to Dingwall and Mooy missed the win over Hibs and Australia's matches during the international break.
Iwata himself was an absentee against Lee Johnson's side, however, he was all smiles when snapped at Lennoxtown earlier this week and the 25-year–old has been catching the eye in the rolling hills of East Dunbartonshire since his arrival. It's understood Iwata's impact has been instant and that has been replicated with several stellar displays off the bench – most notably his calming influence off the bench to see out the Viaplay Cup Final win over Rangers in February.
And now a starting berth could be in the offing with the chance to mix it in the midfield against the Staggies. Iwata offers versatility and him playing the anchor could allow skipper Callum McGregor to push up the pitch and reacquaint himself with the role which he made his own during the Brendan Rodgers era.
Celtic haven't faced the injury strife which beset then during Postecoglou's maiden season and they now possess a deeper squad with players such as Iwata waiting in the wings for their big chance.
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