AWAY from the glare of the spotlight, Aaron Mooy has quietly and effectively settled into life at Celtic.
The Australian World Cup midfielder arrived at Parkhead in the summer on a free transfer to agree a two-year contract with his former international gaffer Ange Postecoglou.
Mooy, who celebrated his 32nd birthday last month, eased his way through 72 minutes of the 4-0 Premier Sports League Cup success over Motherwell at Fir Park before making way for James McCarthy.
The anchorman now has his first Scottish semi-final to look forward to after the holders were paired with Kilmarnock and the game due at Hampden in January.
Mooy has the backing of Postecoglou who has no doubts he will be a big contributor to the team’s cause, as CQN reported yesterday.
The former St Mirren prospect played his part as he, Matt O’Riley and Reo Hatate got a hold of the middle of the park in what could have been a banana skin against Well.
It was the Aussie’s second successive start after his display in the 6-1 win over Hibs at Parkhead four days earlier and once again he went about his role quietly and effectively.
Mooy said: “It was a good game, we played well and created lots of chances, so it was a good night.
“We’re playing well at the moment and scoring goals. We are just looking forward to the next match, so we need to recover and go again.
“I’m enjoying things, it’s going well and I’ve been working hard and waiting for more starts.”
Mooy, speaking to Celtic TV, added: “It’s hard work, but it’s enjoyable when it’s coming off and, hopefully, I can get fitter and improve.
“There’s always more from everybody, not just myself, and it’s good to get more minutes and play more.”
The cultured middle-of-the-park operator is hoping to get the nod to play aganst Hearts at Tynecastle in the 12.30pm kick-off on Saturday.
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