Ryan Christie’s dad urges him to “kick on” in his Celtic career

The dad of Celtic rising star Ryan Christie has urged his son not to rest on his laurels.

The 23-year-old is in a rich vein of form for the Hoops and Scotland, having played a key role in the Tartan Army’s 4-0 win over Albania at the weekend.

He was also superb in Celtic’s memorable 2-1 Europa League victory against RB Leipzig before the international break, as his influence grows all the time.

Speaking to the Daily Record, Christie’s father Charlie, a former professional footballer, spoke of his pride at watching his son at Parkhead that night, also telling him to kick on at the same time:

That night against Leipzig saw Ryan finally make his mark. His performance brought a lump to my throat.

That was the moment Ryan puffed out his chest out and believed not only he was good enough to be a Celtic player but that he belonged on the European stage.

He took his game to another level. He made the set-up for Edouard’s goal look so easy. In that moment I’ve never felt so proud of Ryan.

I told him it was just a stepping stone and he now has to kick on. I have challenged him to turn a great month into a great season and then into a great career.

Christie is riding on the crest of a wave at the moment, but his father is right in his assessment of him.

Many players have enjoyed short purple patches in the past, only to fade away eventually and not reach their potential.

The current signs suggest Christie is going to be a key performer for club and country for years to come, though.