On a day where a number of players could adapt the moniker of TCW’s Star Man, it had to be the man of the moment, who seems to have taken his snub at recent awards ceremonies very, very seriously.

Callum McGregor, Cameron Carter-Vickers, James Forrest, Alistair Johnston and Daizen Maeda were all valiant nominees for this prestigious award, but none shone brighter than the ‘Great Dane’ of Celtic Football Club. Of course, that man is Matt O’Riley, who was everywhere during yesterday’s 2-1 win for Celtic against Rangers at Parkhead. I gave him a nine out of ten in my player ratings – a joint-highest total – as the midfielder was imperious throughout the match,

READ MORE: Detailed Player Ratings: Celtic's 'Great Dane' roars side to Glasgow Derby win

 His opener was a thing of beauty, as he was given the freedom of Celtic Park to roam into a dangerous area by Rangers’ sleeping midfield. His compatriot McGregor – also a standout – fed him the ball, and the Denmark international took a touch before slotting past the busy Jack Butland, who had no chance despite it being at his near post.

He should have doubled his tally from the penalty spot, after being brought down In the box – despite a lengthy VAR check by Willie Collum at the monitor. His effort was tame, however, and Butland got revenge on the midfielder’s exploits from the spot after converting at Ibrox last month. Many would argue he should have converted earlier on, too, as a well-taken free-kick went just wide of the post, as well as a similar shot from distance.

Enough about his contributions to the scoresheet, as O’Riley’s overall game was a pleasure to witness in person. He glided around the pitch with grace and authority, as he caused havoc and mayhem everywhere he went, to Brendan Rodgers and Celtic’s advantage. A solid passer, he rarely gives away possession, whilst his pressing and defensive stats will no doubt be data to marvel at.

His recent performances against Hearts and now Rangers may have cemented his place as Celtic’s player of the season, with the awards show taking place this evening at the SSE Hydro. If it was up to me, then he would be getting a clean sweep of awards in Glasgow tonight, for both player and young player of the year. A frightening talent at the tender age of just 23.

It would be entirely naïve to suggest that O’Riley will be staying put this summer at Celtic. The transfer vultures have already begun to swirl concerning the in-form midfielder, with Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan just two of the names to have registered an interest. With that in mind, Celtic should be looking to get more than their record transfer fee if the player is to move to pastures new this summer. Start your bidding at £30 million, potential suitors!

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For now, however, it is time to enjoy the magic of O’Riley whilst he is still contracted to the club. With two trophies to secure and play for, he will be laser-focused to make his double dreams a reality in the weeks to come. That contract renewal back in September is looking like an extremely smart piece of business now, almost as smart as the £1.5 million Celtic spent back in January 2022 for O’Riley’s services.

What a player and what a professional, who is destined for bigger – but not necessarily better – things in the not-so-distant future. A mammoth in Celtic’s midfield, and perhaps the biggest reason why they will be reclaiming the title sometime in the next week or so.

A joy to watch.