Brendan Rodgers has shared his thoughts ahead of Celtic’s return to action against Aberdeen this Saturday, speaking to Celtic TV about the challenges the team faces with fixture congestion and international breaks.

Both Celtic and Aberdeen head into the clash with 100% records in the league, but Celtic hold the edge on goal difference. It’s been nearly two weeks since the Bhoys last played competitively, following their 2-1 victory over Ross County before the international break. While some players have been away on international duty, others have enjoyed a short break before what will be a busy period for the squad.

6th October 2024; Victoria Park, Dingwall, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Ross County versus Celtic; Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers gives the supporters thumbs up after his side winning the match

Celtic Fixture Congestion

Looking ahead to the upcoming run of fixtures, Rodgers expressed his concern about the increasingly packed football calendar. With Celtic set to play seven games in just 23 days, the manager acknowledged the physical and mental demands on players due to the growing number of games, especially with international breaks interrupting the season

Rodgers responded to a question about fixture congestion, saying:

“Yes, there’s definitely more football crammed into shorter timeframes. Looking forward, I think football is heading towards becoming a 12-month sport. Players may not only get rest in the summer, but at different points throughout the year.

“There are more games and higher demands on players. They love playing, but we want to maintain quality in every match. We’ll continue to prepare the players as best we can, motivating and inspiring them to perform well, and so far, they’ve done a fantastic job.”

Celtic are fighting on four fronts at the moment and the bhoys who are playing international football are doing even more, something has got to give at some point.

The Celtic boss is clearly mindful of how to manage his squad through this period, ensuring that they remain fit and focused while maintaining high standards on the pitch. The game against Aberdeen will be the first of a hectic run, and Rodgers will be looking to keep the momentum going as the Bhoys aim to extend their winning start to the season.

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