Celtic defender Auston Trusty believes striker Kasper Hogh has the potential to replicate his previous Champions League heroics and become a standout performer for the Scottish club in the competition. Hogh, who joined Celtic in the summer for £11 million, previously impressed in Europe’s premier club tournament with Bodo/Glimt, scoring five goals in the group stage last season, including strikes against Manchester City and Inter Milan. Ahead of Celtic’s Champions League qualifying play-off first leg against LASK, Trusty expressed confidence in Hogh’s ability to shine on the big stage once more.
Hogh Poised to Lead Celtic’s European Charge
Kasper Hogh is set to spearhead Celtic’s attack in their crucial Champions League qualifying play-off against Austrian side LASK. The 25-year-old Danish international has made a positive start to his Celtic career, scoring a hat-trick against Kilmarnock, which Trusty believes has boosted his confidence. Trusty highlighted Hogh’s seamless integration into the squad, both on and off the pitch, praising his character and positive influence.
“Is he going to come alive in the Champions League? Yeah, I think so,” said Trusty, the American centre-back. “Last year, you saw him make a name for himself there. Kasper has come in and done really well. Off the pitch, he’s a good character, so he’s seamlessly come into the group. He’s a good vibe and a good guy. Obviously, on the pitch too, he’s done really well. Against Kilmarnock, he scored three goals and that was good for his confidence. Getting goals and the Celtic fans all hyping him up is good – especially for a forward because you kind of need that ego boost no matter what.”
Hogh’s Impact on Celtic’s Attacking Play
Hogh’s arrival has introduced a new dynamic to Celtic’s attacking strategy. His ability to hold up the ball and utilize his physical presence provides a valuable outlet for the team, which is crucial for their build-up play from the back. Trusty explained how Hogh’s presence offers more options for defenders, enabling them to connect effectively with midfielders.
“Holding the ball up is pretty crucial to the way we play, building up from the back,” Trusty noted. “We have an outlet pass and, as a defender, that gives you more options. You have the eight, a winger, and a left-back, but having that nine option in the air or on the ground, who can hold it up and connect well, and connect well with the eights when they’re running is pretty crucial. He’ll be good in the Champions League.”
Depth of Attacking Talent Key for Celtic
While Hogh is expected to be a key figure, Trusty emphasized that Celtic’s strength lies in their collective scoring threat. The team has demonstrated this by scoring ten goals in their opening three matches, with contributions from six different players. The additions of Hogh, Camilo Duran, and Haissem Hassan, coupled with Benjamin Nygren’s strong start to the season, have created a potent and dangerous attacking unit.
Trusty, who scored himself in a recent match, feels this season’s Celtic squad possesses significant attacking depth. “It’s good. We are showing the camaraderie and mindset of the team. Goals can come from everywhere and everyone can step up,” he stated. “Every goal and every win increases confidence. Playing for Celtic, being here at this club and organisation, you have to have that mindset. It’s kind of hard to put it into words. I guess it’s just winning at all costs and continue on. Winning is everything – putting your heart out there, your body on the line at all costs.”
Ambition for Champions League Qualification
Reflecting on last season’s disappointing exit from Champions League qualifiers, Trusty stressed the importance of reaching the group stage this term. He acknowledged the pressure and expectations that come with playing for Celtic but embraces it as a motivating factor. The squad is confident in its ability to handle the demands of European competition.
“It was disappointing to not get to the Champions League last year, but to win the league and put ourselves in position to try to get there this time, that’s what you want,” Trusty said. “At Celtic you are always under that pressure, those expectations. Being a Celtic player, you understand the outside but you also want that. You are thankful you have that environment because a lot of players maybe don’t play in those atmospheres or where that’s the standard. It’s good. I think we’re equipped well. We have a good squad and the guys who have come in are good players. They are helping the team.”
Set-Piece Prowess and Future Ambitions
Trusty also credited the work of set-piece coach Ross Grant for improving Celtic’s threat from dead-ball situations. He noted that scoring from set pieces would be a valuable addition to their offensive capabilities. Looking ahead, Trusty expressed excitement about the upcoming Premier Sports Cup quarter-final against Rangers at Ibrox, reinforcing the team’s overarching goal of winning trophies.
“He’s made it clear for us how to score goals and get into positions to score goals,” Trusty said regarding Grant’s coaching. “It’s been at a certain point in the week or the day before a game. Whether it’s video or putting it out on the pitch and getting little bits out, he’s done well since he came in. Scoring from set pieces would be another good addition.” He added, “We are delighted to be in the next round. The mindset is to continue on and win more trophies.”
