Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley delivers honest verdict on critics and missed out on World Cup

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Celtic midfielder Matt ORiley is more than happy to reflect on his own flaws in his quest to become a better player for the Bhoys.

ORiley is adjusting to a more forward-thinking role after replacing Callum McGregor before the break and hasn’t quite hit top speed against Aberdeen or Livingston in the opening two matches.

However, he was part of an effective attacking performance against St Johnstone this afternoon, registering an assist as Kyogo Furuhashi’s opening goal was set up.

Photo by Alvaro Medranda/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

And responding in this way could well be down to the fantastic attitude he has towards criticism, which he spoke about before playing against the Perth side.

As quoted by the Scottish Daily Mail [24/12 print edition, page 85]he said: I think most players who want to improve would probably be their own biggest critics. Otherwise, you will not improve. I will reflect on the games to see what I could have done better. Against Livingston I definitely could have been better, but as a team in general we could have been a bit smoother and more connected.

We have a certain structure that we have to commit to and the whole team has to commit to their roles or it won’t work. It happened against Livingston many times with all of us. That’s probably why you’ve seen quite a few balls go through the goal and pass. We usually have someone. Aberdeen was not the same in this sense. We actually played well, they had so many men behind the ball.

And on the subject of missing out on the World Cup squad with Denmark, ORiley was quick to point out he has a lot on his plate.

He continued: At first it was disappointing. After that, I supported Denmark. There are a lot of things I need to improve and work on first to keep raising my level with every game. I have to start affecting the game more in the opposing box.

It’s a mature attitude for sure and should help his development at Celtic. It’s easy to forget that he’s only 22 and has great potential, even when his form dips.

The way he replaced McGregor was outstanding, drawing particular praise from the manager. If he can get back to his creative best, there are new heights to reach in the second half of the season.

In other news, Report: Ange Postecoglou adds yet another name to the Celtic Christmas wish list.

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