GREG TAYLOR has had to overcome his fair share of adversity on his way to becoming a first-team regular at Celtic. Between forcing his way into the starting XI, fending off challenges from other left-backs vying for his place and winning over managers – and supporters – it has been far from plain sailing for the Scotland internationalist.
The likes of Boli Bolingoli and Diego Laxalt have been and gone and Taylor remains, fighting for his chance every week as he slowly wins the doubters around.
That still might not be enough for Taylor to hold onto his shirt – Ange Postecoglou has already outlined his intention to add further reinforcements in the full-back positions over the summer – and the 24-year-old knows he cannot rest on his laurels if he wants to push on at Parkhead.
“Since I signed for Celtic, that’s been consistent in terms of other full-backs fighting for my position,” he said. “It’s the same with every position and it’s the way it will always be at a club of this size.
“Celtic will always be looking to improve. If that means someone comes in to take your position you have to be ready for that fight and hope to keep it.
“I don’t think it’s a case of seeing players off. I just work every day in trying to get picked on a weekend. As long as that keeps happening I’ll be pleased.
“If you think that way [that you are first pick in your position], you can get caught up in the moment and not focus on what’s important.
“I try not to look back, I just try to get better every day. I keep my feet on the ground and aim to get selected in every game for Celtic. Thankfully that’s happened often this season when I’ve been fit.
“It’s enjoyable to be in that position at a club of this size. But I’ll never think I’m this or that - I’m just working hard for Celtic.”
Taylor tends to fly under the radar in this Celtic side but that’s just the way the left-back likes it. A few more goals wouldn’t go amiss – would they ever? – but the defender is happy to avoid the spotlight that’s often shone on his team-mates.
“I’m happy with that,” Taylor said. “Although I’d probably like to score a few more goals and then I’d get spoken about a bit more - but I don’t do that unfortunately!
“We’ve all got roles within the team and I think we’re all appreciated for the jobs we do.
“If I can continue to play a small part within the whole system, I’ll be happy. It has got us into a good position so far.
“[The style implemented by Postecoglou] has been great for me and I’m very grateful to the manager for the opportunity he’s given me this year.
“I’ve tried to reward him with good performances and I feel I’ve improved along the way.
“The style suits me more now. I’m trying to improve in every game and if I keep getting positive feedback, I know I’m on the right lines.”
