Ex-Celtic striker John Hartson claims that right-back Anthony Ralston has improved more than any other player in the first-team squad this campaign.

The 22-year-old was often derided by pundits and supporters alike for his lack of quality, and he only played once under Neil Lennon and John Kennedy last season.

However, Ralston has become a regular starter under manager Ange Postecoglou and Hartson has been quick to praise the fullback’s development:

“Ralston’s been excellent, right from the word go. Start of the season, he’s been Celtic’s most improved player. He’s got the shirt and I think the manager really likes him. I think Ralston’s been outstanding, he really has.”

Not one Celtic fan would have predicted Ralston’s rise over the last few months. Postecoglou was forced into using the defender in the opening weeks of his tenure simply due to the fact there were no other right-backs at the club, but the player grabbed his chance with both hands.

In 17 appearances for the Hoops, Ralston has scored three goals and provided one assist. It is his defensive work, though, that has won him many admirers, having helped Celtic concede only four goals in the seven league games he has featured in this campaign.