Charlie Nicholas says Ange Postecoglou's Celtic cold shoulder leaves him captivated - but he's in no doubt over the boss' mentality.
The Parkhead manager has won PFA Manager of the Year for the second year running after leading the Hoops to the Premiership title, having lost just twice all season, and winning the League Cup in February. He could also write his name into Celtic folklore by landing a treble at the start of June by beating Inverness CT in the Scottish Cup final next month.
Former player Nicholas reckons there was only one candidate for the top boss gong, but how Postecoglou goes about his business is engrossing. And even in Champions League group stage elimination, the Australian left a telling mark on Nicholas with a key trait. The pundit wrote in his Daily Express column: "It’s an obvious choice given that Celtic are on the brink of a treble, but Ange Postecoglou has to be the manager of the season.
"The Aussie's effectiveness and influence at Celtic is fascinating because he isn't known for being much of a man-manager. He doesn't seem to be particularly close to his players.
"But there is no doubt he has their total respect. Postecoglou keeps his distance and it works, look at what he does in the transfer market.
"He doesn't just sign a player because they offer good value for money. He ensures they operate in a style that suits the way he wants the game to be played, i.e with pace, relentless energy and good technical skill.
"What impressed me this season was that even in the Champions League, Postecoglou wasn't willing to sacrifice his principles. He was prepared to take on the elite of Europe.
"He doesn't play a defensive game and that is so refreshing. I also share his belief that you need to go for it and test yourself against the best, otherwise you'll always be running scared when it comes to the big occasions.
"Postecoglou is not frightened of failure and that keeps him on the front foot. Younger coaches might not be able to set up their teams in the same style, but they could learn a lot from him.
"It's interesting that he retained the majority of the backroom staff he inherited when he was appointed at Parkhead in June 2021. They will also be getting an education working under Postecoglou, above.
"The 57-year-old has laid down the foundations at Celtic and, when he eventually moves on, those foundations will be there for his successor."
