Anthony Ralston has already secured his place in Celtic folklore, having provided the moment that many feel swung the title race in his club’s favour during Ange Postecoglou’s first season in Glasgow.

His late, late header against Ross County in Dingwall will likely be remembered longer than his crucial slide tackle against Hibernian last midweek that led to Celtic winning possession, winning a penalty and ultimately winning the game in stoppage time once again, but he feels it was no less important.

His manager clearly feels the same, with Brendan Rodgers referencing the moment and praising Ralston for his commitment to the cause in the aftermath of that victory, and for the full back, it was simply a demonstration of the desire within the Celtic camp to retain their title.

“It’s nice to hear the gaffer saying nice things – you always appreciate it,” Ralston said.

“It makes the work worthwhile every day and it keeps you positive.

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“It’s good from a personal perspective but the most important thing is making a positive impact to help the team. I just want to repay the faith as much as I can.

“I don’t really like talking about myself or things that I’ve done. But obviously that moment at Easter Road, that tackle, was instinctive and it was something I felt I had to make.

“We were all desperate to get a goal and to get the win. From that tackle we got the penalty, so it was a good feeling from a personal level. But it was more about the team getting the win.

“If I’m called upon to do that again I’ll make that tackle, that header or whatever. We are all the same because there is a real hunger and desire in the squad.

“That is what is important and what the fans expect – that will and desire to keep going, even if it’s not going your way.

“It’s about getting over the line, as that is what champions do. We’ve shown that hunger of late and need it again against Kilmarnock.

“It’s good to get a run of games. It’s about being professional and working to your maximum every day. In fairness, we have got a squad of boys who are all that way.

“It helps everyone as you are prepared to come in whenever you are called on to do a job.

“You need to be ready. I’m glad that was the case and I’ve been able to come in and do a job for the team.”

Ralston is currently enjoying that run at the expense of Alistair Johnston, with the Canadian still out after suffering a fracture to his skull in that game at Easter Road.

It has been the way of it for the 25-year-old that he has often had to bide his time for his opportunity, with his managers at both club and international level consistently relying upon him as a dependable understudy.

The injury issues of Brentford’s Aaron Hickey may also open up an opportunity for him to be part of Steve Clarke’s Scotland squad for the European Championships in the summer, and while he would never want to see his teammates sidelined, he says he is desperate to be involved.

“It’s something that of course I want to be part of,” he said.

“Every player wants to be recognised internationally. It’s a massive stage. It’s something that’s on my mind to be a part of. 

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“That’s why it’s always important, both club and internationally, that I’m doing my work every day and that I’m taking my chances when I get them. That’s my aim. I’ll aim to be in that squad. It’s exciting. 

“You want everybody to be in full health. It’s not something, as a person or a player, that you'd ever wish to happen. 

“I just focus on myself. I don’t look elsewhere. I hope that’s enough. In the past, at times it has been, I’m just focusing on doing the same again.

“Hopefully I’m in that squad and can take part in such an amazing tournament for the country.”