Celtic midfielder Tomoki Iwata has managed to establish himself as a reliable option in the number six position since returning from injury.
The Japan international has now made 16 appearances in all competitions for the Hoops, registering one goal and two assists [Transfermarkt].
Of course, the 26-year-old did miss a few months of action after limping out against Feyenoord in the Champions League last year; however, he has returned with a vengeance and has expressed his desire to improve his goal contribution tally in green and white.
He stated: “I always think about the part of my game where I’m involved in scoring. It’s one of my strengths to read and stop opposition attacks from defence, but I want to show that I can also get involved in goals on top of that.”
Brendan Rodgers has a big call to make over whether he starts at Ibrox on Sunday; nevertheless, Iwata is a valuable squad player capable of slotting into various different positions.
In our efforts to bring the Scottish Premiership title to Parkhead, squad rotation is vital, and the former Yokohama F. Marinos man is the type of character who can pitch in where necessary.
Tomoki Iwata explains his vast Celtic improvement
Every passing week, Iwata looks to be growing in stature by comfortably slotting into the Celtic midfield and mopping up forward momentum from the opposition.
Intriguingly, he has revealed some slight tweaks to his game he feels have given him an edge since returning to action.
He told The Celtic View: “Even though I couldn’t play, I still had some chance to watch the other players around me. It was an opportunity to observe and learn how they play and, without such time, it would be difficult to pay attention to such areas.
“Since I came here, I’ve been doing a lot of physical training, but this season, I’ve been focusing more on how I can actually use my strength in games. I have been paying more attention to my physical condition and to be in the best shape to play.
“I think there have been a few changes, like maybe a little bit more control over the volume of workouts. So I think overall there was a change from last season.
“I’m getting the best out of myself in terms of duelling and one-on-one situations with my opponents. But sometimes, you can’t beat them physically in an aerial duel or when it comes to pure physical strength.
“You have to be smart and I have to improve the speed of decision-making on how to deal with the situation.
Tomoki Iwata’s subtle changes are bearing fruit
Albeit Callum McGregor is the heir to the throne in the deeper Celtic midfield role, Iwata has proved himself as a more than able deputy who can step when needed.
For some, there may have been question marks over his value long-term at the club, though most fans would subscribe to the theory that he has something to offer in the foreseeable future.
Hopefully, he can continue to kick on at Parkhead and be a key player in our pursuit of a domestic double.