Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has underlined the importance of squad rotation as the Hoops prepare for a demanding nine-day stretch that includes fixtures against Hibernian, Dinamo Zagreb, and Rangers.
With Celtic enjoying one of their strongest starts in recent years, Rodgers is determined to maintain performance levels while protecting his players from burnout and injuries.
The squad is in a good place, with no injuries at the moment.
Speaking ahead of the Hibernian clash, Rodgers expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to handle the rigours of the upcoming fixtures: [Celtic TV]
“We’re all good. We’re in a really, really good place, and I think that is also part of the rotation. I think what enables us to do that, if you don’t have the depth to the squad an the strength in your squad, you’re maybe having to play players for 90 plus minutes, three times a week, playing them all the time.
“Which is then, you have a greater risk of injury. What we’ve been able to do is, manage the minutes of the players, and when there has been a little niggle we can maybe take someone out, or if someone has played a lot more minutes, then we have that possibility to take them out, that’s the benefit of having a depth of the squad.
“I’ve really enjoyed that aspect of it, picking the teams to put out and giving that opportunity for some of them to have some breathing space. It also can depend on the game your playing and what it is you want from the game, that’ll decide who plays also.”
Celtic’s depth has been on full display this season, with several players excelling when called upon.
Rodgers pointed to the 5-0 victory over Ross County as evidence of the squad’s strength.
Celtic supporters have shown their support for Rodgers’ rotation, recognising its role in the team’s consistency this season. With 13 wins and one draw in the league, the Hoops have demonstrated that quality and depth go hand in hand, a stark contrast to their rivals.
Recent performances, particularly the emphatic win against Ross County and Aberdeen, have reinforced confidence in Rodgers’ ability to navigate a congested fixture list without sacrificing results.
Celtic face Hibs tomorrow, where Rodgers is expected to make further changes to ensure his squad remains sharp for the challenges ahead.
