Ange Postecoglou has backed summer signing Giorgios Giakoumakis to succeed at Celtic, following an injury-ravaged start to life in Glasgow.

Signed from VVV Venlo going into this campaign, much optimism surrounded the arrival of the Greek striker as he finished 2020/21 as top-scorer in the Dutch Eredivisie with 26 goals in 30 appearances.

Despite this, much of his spell has been taken up by injury and fitness concerns which have come as a disappointment to the 27-year-old. However, he has received the backing of his manager in a recent interview.

Speaking to a Greek TV station, Postecoglou stated:

“I believe in him. He had a great season with VVV-Venlo.

“Giorgos came late to Celtic. He didn’t get a pre-season and has been unlucky with injuries a couple of times but now he is ready.”

Postecoglou backing is the perfect springboard for Giakoumakis to regularly contribute at Celtic

With lots of football to come in the second half of the season, Giakoumakis will surely get chances to stake his claim for a regular starting position at the club.

Seemingly back fit and healthy, the Greece international could provide a different option in attack with his physicality, sharp finishing, and ability to get on the end of crosses.

In a fleeting example of his quality in front of goal, the burly forward showed great composure to find the corner with a side-footed volley in our 2-0 victory over St Johnstone last October.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zd22tfYpgyA

Hopefully, that goal will be the first of many for Giakoumakis in a Celtic jersey.