Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has outlined his plans for James Forrest’s testimonial match on Tuesday, stating that he will field two different sides, each playing for 45 minutes.
This strategy is part of Rodgers’ approach to improving the team’s fitness and honing their positioning on the field.
After the match, Brendan Rodgers spoke to ViaPlay about areas which he was pleased with, but admitted there was still plenty to work on.
“It’s about building again on the fitness, aspects of our positioning. The team obviously plays well but there are certain phases of the game where we can improve,” Rodgers said in his pre-match comments.
The manager acknowledged that while the team performed well in the early stages of their recent matches, they need to work on maintaining their composure and effectiveness under pressure. He also highlighted the need to work on positioning elements.
“In the build-up in the early stages, we were good, but then it’s about dealing with that under pressure and working on some more positioning elements,” Rodgers explained.
The testimonial match, which honours Forrest’s long-standing contribution to Celtic, will serve as the final part of the team’s pre-season preparations.
Rodgers’ decision to field two different sides will allow more players to gain match experience and improve their fitness levels ahead of the new season.
“Tuesday we’ll play two 45 minutes because players need to get some minutes into their legs and that will be our final preparation game before the season starts,” Rodgers concluded.
The manager’s comments reflect his commitment to continuous improvement and readiness for the upcoming season. As the testimonial match approaches, Celtic fans will be eager to get along to support the side for the return to Parkhead for Brendan Rodgers.
