Ange Postecoglou not buying Celtic theory on star man as Carter-Vickers hailed 'the best in the league'

Ange Postecolgou hailed Cameron Carter-Vickers as the “best” defender in the Scottish Premiership after being asked if the American flew under the radar.

The Celtic centre back put some gloss on their Scottish Cup quarter-final victory away to Hearts, making it three and easy for the hoops with a simple late header, rising unchallenged to meet Matt O’Riley’s free-kick delivery and truly kill off any lingering hopes the hosts may have had. Aaron Mooy and Kyogo had already done the damage in the first half as the champions progressed to the last four alongside Inverness CT.

Postecoglou seemed baffled by the suggestion that Carter-Vickers doesn’t really stand out despite performing well. For him, there’s no-one better in the division and talked up the former Tottenham man, not just for his Tynecastle display, but for how he’s done since joining the Parkhead club since Postecoglou brought him north of the border in the first place.

“I don’t know about that,” the Celtic boss countered. "I’d say he's probably the best defender in the league and if anyone disputes that, I’m happy to put up an argument.

“I don’t think he goes under the radar at all. He’s been an outstanding player for us over the last 18 or so months. He’s a guy who’s constantly working hard at his game and improving. It was great for him to get a goal today because defenders love these kinds of things. But it’s what he does for us at the other end that’s really important.”

The travelling Celtic support voiced their demands to win it all as they watched their favourites reach another semi-final. But Postecoglou refused to indulge in Treble talk.

He told Viaplay Sports: “Hibs next week mate, that’s what’s in my sights. As boring as that may seem, it seems to be