Why Celtic star tipped for 'next level' is already primed for player of the season

There was a slight lull at Celtic Park during the friendly with Blackburn Rovers. Then there wasn’t. In its place a roar of approval, of celebration.

Jota was wide on the left. His peripheral vision picked up a visiting player coming towards him from his right. He instinctively scooped the ball up into the sky and over the bemused opponent.

Okay, it was a friendly – which finished 2-2 – but it was the simplicity of it all. This was a player having fun and looking uber confident. Which, of course, should be a huge worry for opposition full-backs.

"I spoke to him after the game and he said it’s the first time he’s tried that skill in a game," team-mate Matt O’Riley said. “Sometimes in a game you’re relaxed and you try it.”

The summer of Jota was an interesting one. He had to endure a flight full of Rangers fans heading to the Europa League final. He had a kickabout with Celtic fans in Spain, wearing last season’s home top. Then there was the wait, the long and agonising wait for supporters, before his permanent deal from Benfica was confirmed after last season’s successful loan spell.

Watching him against Blackburn Rovers suggested a player, now Celtic's third most expensive recruit, who is only just getting started. Last season may well be a mere amuse-bouche for what’s about to be served up.

The Celtic Park stadium announcer, building up to reading out Jota’s name, spoke of the Portuguese star being “here for the next five years”.

If he improves and reaches the level many hope and expect, the club will have a very hard time keeping him around all that time. You only have to see how players performing in Scotland are becoming more valued.

"There’s no ceiling to his potential," his manager Ange Postecoglou said.

"I know