Ireland underage starlet makes senior debut for Celtic

Republic of Ireland under-19 midfielder Rocco Vata has followed in his father Rudi's footsteps by making his senior Celtic debut on Wednesday.

The 17-year-old, who has been playing for Hoops' 'B' side, impressed first-team manager Ange Postecoglou during the winter break and was rewarded for his efforts in Celtic's 4-0 win over Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership last night.

Vata is the ninth youngest player to play for the Glasgow club after entering the fray at Easter Road in the 84th minute.