Remarkable statistic illuminates Armstrong’s rise

There was only a minute between Celtic’s second and third goals against Partick Thistle on Friday evening but for that moment, a remarkable statistic had currency. Stuart Armstrong scored three and assisted two of Celtic’s six previous goals in the league. This is a level beyond an incredible upgrade in form.

Watching Stuart’s blossoming in recent weeks, you still get he’s been playing within himself for much of the last two years. It could be that the inverted-left-winger role didn’t suit him, or that the step up to the pressures of playing for Celtic inhibited him to the extent that the levels of confidence necessary to perform were not to be found.

Even now, watching his body language on the field, and in interview, he looks like he’s still finding his way. I’m pretty sure there’s more to come from him, given the necessary support.