Ange Postecoglou has updated supporters about classy playmaker Tom Rogic after the midfielder was forced off shortly before half-time. The Australian went down deep into the Hibs half in order to get medical attention for an issue in his left hamstring, prompting a swap with Nir Bitton coming on.
At this stage, Celtic were 3-1 up and looking very menacing thanks to Rogic’s quick feet and excellent skill on the ball. He had Gogic and Newell scrambling to keep up with him as he was able to weave between the lines and create chances.
When asked following the game, Postecoglou confirmed (via Evening Times) that Rogic would need to be assessed to see the extent of the injury.
“Tom did feel something in his hamstring. It’s wait and see. We’ll just assess it.
“He’s never done one before so he was confused by it as well.
(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
“He was outstanding in the first half. His ability to find space is second to none.
“We had three quick boys up front who we knew were quick tonight, technically good, and Tommy was key to getting the best out of them and opening it up.
“He’s played a lot for us, so he’s one I’d probably be looking to rest for the weekend anyway, but hopefully he’s OK.
“I’m not that good, I’m not really sure, he said it didn’t feel too bad, so we’ll assess that.”
Rogic, in particular, was excellent for Celtic’s third goal as he danced around Hibs players before playing a perfectly weighted ball into the path of Jota, who was able to cutback to Kyogo. Celtic enjoyed their best chances whilst Rogic was on the park and his substitution lead to a more sustained period of pressure from the hosts in the second half.
It looks as if Rogic will be out of Saturday’s game against Livingston but it is an opportunity to spread the work across the team and for someone else to step up. Mikey Johnston looked threatening today, he may hope that Ange can find a way to include him in the team going forward, even if there is plenty of competition.