ANGE POSTECOGLOU is now focusing on leading Celtic to Premiership points when they face St Mirren at Parkhead tonight.
The encounter with the Paisley side – the only Scottish team to beat the champions this season – is flanked by the Hoops’ activities in both national Cup tournaments.
The holders overcame stubborn Kilmarnock 2-0 in the Viaplay League Cup semi-final at Hampden to book a return for the derby showpiece showdown on Sunday February 26.
RAINING CHAMPION…Ange Postecoglou salutes the Celtic fans after the 2-0 Viaplay Cup win over Kilmarnock at storm-lashed Hampden.
After tonight, the manager’s attention will switch to the Scottish Cup-tie against Championship side Morton in the east end of Glasgow on Saturday with a 12.15pm kick-off.
That was the one that got away from the Greek-Australian on his debut crusade as Hoops boss.
Postecoglou is a big fan of both Cup tournaments while many countries worldwide only have one major Cup competition.
The boss, who has managed in Australia and Japan, said: “Both Cups have their place in Scottish football and you’ve got to remember, it’s not just about us or Rangers.
“There have been other clubs in the past who have won the League Cup.
“That’s been a fantastic achievement for them and something for them to aim for.
“It has been my experience in other countries that you want to give opportunities as much as possible, to players and clubs.”
CUP THAT CHEERS…Ange Postecoglou proudly grasps the Premier Sports League Cup trophy after Celtic’s 2-1 victory over Hibs at Hampden on December 19 2021 – his first piece of silverware as Hoops boss.
Postecoglou, speaking to the Scottish Sun, added: “I don’t have an issue with both Cups, they are part of the calendar. We would all have loved to have European football in the back half of this year and that’s why we have built a squad to cater for it.
“We’re not in it, our goal next year is to make sure we are. But if you look at Celtic in recent years, they have consistently played between 50 and 60 games.
“The players adapt to it, so it’s up to me to make sure we have a strong enough squad to be able to challenge on all fronts.”
* DON’T miss the unbeatable match report from Celtic v St Mirren this evening – only in your champion CQN.
