After 14 years of calling this place home, Scott Brown's long-awaited return to Parkhead in a different colour of jersey lasted all of 65 minutes.
A suitably warm ovation followed him off the pitch as he retired hurt to be replaced by Austin Samuels. By then, however, his successor as Celtic captain had already ensured this would not be a happy comeback. The pressing needs of the present at Parkhead trumped any sense of nostalgia.
A midfielder of exceptional poise, Callum McGregor will score many prettier goals than the fortuitous 60th minute rebound that put Ange Postecoglou's side back in front. This season, though, he might not produce many of greater significance.
Callum McGregor (right) scored a fortuitous 60th minute rebound as Celtic beat Aberdeen
Benfica loanee Jota scored his fifth goal in five games to put Scottish giants in front
Fresh from exiting the Europa League on Thursday evening, losing ground in the Premiership title race would have stalled Celtic's momentum. McGregor was in the right place at the right time to ensure the accelerator remained engaged. Blocking a Jonny Hayes clearance into the Aberdeen net, the 28-year-old kept his side within four points of leaders Rangers.
McGregor had spoken sincerely of his debt to Brown, extolling his virtues as a leader but making it clear any sentiment would have to be parked in pursuit of victory. His predecessor wouldn't have expected anything else.
Celtic wobbled for a bit after Lewis Ferguson stuck a first half equaliser from the penalty spot but no one could really dispute they deserved the win overall.
Jota scored his fifth goal in five games to put them in front. Once again, the Benfica loanee was a stand-out performer. He may be growing slightly weary of questions about his future, but the more he sparkles the more they will continue. His agreement is obviously required for Celtic to take up the £6 million option they hold for a permanent deal.
Once again, the Benfica loanee was a stand-out performer for the hosts at Celtic Park
While Postecoglou could reflect with satisfaction on the outcome, there was only further frustration for counterpart Stephen Glass. It's now two wins in 16 for Aberdeen, who remain eighth. They weren't bad here, but clearly results will have to pick up to prevent pressure engulfing Glass once more.
The prelude to an intriguing first half was dominated by tributes to Bertie Auld, who was laid to rest last Friday.
A montage of moments from the Lisbon Lion's extraordinary life filled the large video screen inside Parkhead. McGregor and Brown then walked out together to lay wreaths on centre-circle – covered by a giant no.10 and the words 'That's Entertainment' – before the teams gathered to take part in a minute's applause.
It looked as though Celtic might channel that emotion into a dominant display. Ahead on 20 minutes, they pulled Aberdeen out of shape with some nice variation in their attacking play.
