Ange Postecoglou on the Celtic star his 'new perspective' got the best from as boss insists he's building for the long term

Ange Postecoglou has hailed the leadership qualities of Nir Bitton.

The Celtic boss insists the stand-in skipper is amongst an experienced core who are key in helping gel his vibrant and new-look squad.

With Callum McGregor sidelined due to his serious facial injury, Bitton has stepped up again and into the breach.

The Israeli led Celtic to their midweek win over Hearts having also had the armband for December victories over St Johnstone and Real Betis.

Bitton is almost part of the furniture at Parkhead. The Israeli is into his ninth season at the club after being signed in 2013 and has experienced virtually all emotions.

Bitton’s built strong bonds with Celtic stars past and present and his knowledge has proved invaluable to the new recruits.

As Postecoglou has brought younger players into the squad, the 30-year-old and other long-term members of the dressing room such as McGregor and James Forrest have taken responsibility to guide.

The boss has been delighted with Bitton’s contributions since his appointment and said: “He’s been great. As with all these things, people look at things differently if he has been here for a while.

“I came in with fresh eyes and a new perspective and I just look at how they are training and playing.

“Nir has been great since I got here. If you look historically, he hasn’t played that many games in the last three or four years in the league. He is going really well and playing in a position I think suits him and suits us.

“Nir has played a lot at centre-back, but I feel he is much better suited to the midfield. He has that experience and leadership because he has been at the club for so long. He has been fantastic for us.”

Postecoglou may not spend all of his time in the changing