manager praises robson's influence

David Friel
GORDON STRACHAN admits the energy and commitment of April Player of the Month Barry Robson has helped boost Celtic at a crucial stage of the season.

The midfielder, signed from Dundee United in January, has cemented his place in the Celtic side with a string of swashbuckling performances in recent weeks.

And the Hoops boss admits Robson’s enthusiasm has rubbed off on his team-mates during Celtic’s five-match-winning run.

“Barry has re-energised us in a way in his own basic way of doing it,” said the manager, who was also crowned Manager of the Month for April.

“People have taken a lead from him and Paul Hartley in terms of tempo and drive. He can be really pleased with himself and his overall game in recent months. Barry’s probably helped some players recharge the batteries.

“His enthusiasm for the game has rubbed off on people. I’m not saying we didn’t have that, but at the time when he came into the team we weren’t getting results.

“Barry came along and re-energised us a bit. Sometimes you can get into the team at short notice and you have to be ready.

“You never know when that break is going to come for you. You have to be ready and Barry was. That was good, because he was up for the challenge.”