Callum McGregor reckons disciplined and technical Paulo Bernardo has staked a strong claim to fill the gaping Celtic void left by Reo Hatate.And the Parkhead skipper has demanded a strong mentality and no drop-off in levels against Hibs after the high-octane Champions League exertions.
Hatate is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a damaged hamstring he sustained in midweek. Bernardo took over from the Japanese against Atletico Madrid after just seven minutes and grasped his opportunity with a solid display.The 21-year-old has struggled for game-time since his August deadline day loan switch from Benfica with just four sub appearances prior to facing Atletico.
But McGregor says the Portuguese has shown impressive traits and as he gets set to battle the likes of Tomoki Iwata, David Turnbull and Odin Thiago Holm for a spot in Hatate’s absence.The captain gave an insight into Bernardo’s work as he said: “He’s technical, as you would imagine, coming from abroad.
He wants to be on the ball, he wants to make things happen. You can see that from the little glimpses he had against Atletico.“He’s not shy in working hard.
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