The 8 statistics behind Diego Laxalt's excellent performance for Celtic in Lille

Celtic supporters haven’t been too impressed with the club’s summer recruitment so far this term with big-name signings Shane Duffy and Vasilis Barkas, in particular, coming in for criticism over their recent displays.

Diego Laxalt has impressed Celtic fans so far. Picture: SNS

But one player they are excited by is Diego Laxalt, the loanee from AC Milan who has hit the ground running in a green-and-white-hooped shirt so far.

The left-back has impressed with his ability to drive forward and help the attack, while he also looks a solid prospect defensively as he’s shared time at wing-back and full-back in his short Parkhead career so far.

Against Lille on Thursday evening he took his performances up a level. In what was a much-improved performance from Neil Lennon’s men on recent showings, a number of Celtic players stood out, but, along with double-goalscorer Mohamed Elyounoussi, Laxalt was one of those who shone the most.

BT Sport’s official account shared a video showing the 13 tackles the Uruguayan made during the 2-2 draw, but they weren’t the only statistics to stand out from the Europa League encounter. The full list is as follows...

5 - interceptions made

7 - dribbles attempted

13 - tackles made

80 - per cent success rate on forward passes

86 - per cent of defensive duels won

88.5 - pass accuracy

100 - per cent success rate on sliding tackles

Average position – Laxalt was more advanced than midfielders Callum McGregor, Scott Brown and almost level with right-midfielder Ryan Christie.

Having a player in such strong form bodes well for the champions this weekend as they look to end a four-game winless run in the Scottish Cup semi-final clash with Aberdeen.

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