Praise is generally saved and lavished on the difference makers in matches, but successful teams also require a functioning and often under-appreciated supporting cast.
Inverted full-backs are synonymous with Ange Postecoglou's trademark aggressive style, and 18 months ago, there was a presumption he would enter into the transfer market to recruit defenders capable of adapting to his preferred system. Josip Juranović was purchased from Legia Warsaw to fill a void on the right side. Greg Taylor, whom the Australian inherited, was afforded an opportunity, out of necessity, to make a mark on the opposite flank.
Perhaps if Postecoglou did not have to recruit so many players to fill gaping holes in a poorly constructed squad, a new left-back would have been high on his agenda. His transfer budget could only stretch so far, and there was an element of having to make do and compromise early in the rebuild.
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Taylor capitalised on his opening, with his work ethic and industry endearing him to his new boss. There was a noticeable upturn in his performances, and he forged a strong bond with Jota on the left side. The 25-year-old is aware of his limitations - he is content to defer to the elusive Portuguese - and the pair inter-linked impressively during a championship-winning campaign.
There can be snobbery from Celtic and Rangers followers towards signings from within the Scottish Premiership. Familiarity can breed contempt - especially in a 12-team league - and a domestic arrival is rarely afforded the same leeway as an alluring purchase from a glamorous location. Taylor was dependable for Steve Clarke at Kilmarnock, yet his capture did not overly enthuse Parkhead attendees.
Taylor, considered safe and reliable, has become a more rounded and progressive performer under Postecoglou. His newly elevated squad status highlights the impact of the Australian, and he has improved immeasurably within the last 18 months. Managers of substance enhance players, even those considered substandard, as Anthony Ralston will testify, and Taylor's matchday inclusion no longer invokes disappointment in the stands.
The left-back Postecoglou likely sought on his arrival in Glasgow was recruited during the most recent summer window. Alexandro Bernabei joined from Lanús to compete with Taylor, and the young Argentine is gradually adapting to the physical nature of Scottish football. His involvement has been minimal so far, predominantly due to the form of Taylor, and there is little to suggest he will usurp his more-experienced colleague anytime soon.
Taylor, who came on as a substitute and netted a vital back-post winner against Hearts last month, remains under contract until the summer of 2025. His steadiness earned him an improved deal, and his prime years will be in green and white. Taylor continues to grow in importance, although unlike some of his teammates, he is unlikely to be coveted south of the border. His lack of athleticism and physicality are simply limitations that are too difficult to disguise at the highest level.
Taylor spent his formative years in the Rangers Youth Academy, but as a teenager, he was deemed too small and released. Kilmarnock gave him a second chance, and by the midway point of season 2016/17, he had amassed more playing time than any under-20 player in the UK.
The Scotland internationalist has had to overcome adversity at various junctures in his career, yet he has still managed to accumulate over 200 club appearances. He has had to fight and scrap to achieve any recognition, and his form this season has catapulted an unsung hero into the limelight.
There is not anyone at Celtic who begrudges Taylor, a consummate professional, his moment in the sun - reinforcing just how appreciated and respected he is by the people that know him best.
*18+ | BeGambleAware
