Brendan Rodgers has highlighted the importance of Celtic’s visit to Tynecastle this weekend, describing the trip as a major early test of character for his side.
The victory in Europe provided a timely lift following a difficult domestic run that has left Celtic five points behind league leaders Hearts. With Cameron Carter-Vickers sidelined long-term and several others battling fitness issues, Rodgers is urging his squad to carry their improved intensity from Europe into Sunday’s encounter.
Celtic’s record at Tynecastle in recent seasons has been mixed, and Rodgers knows the atmosphere in Gorgie can be one of the most hostile in Scottish football. Yet, despite the challenges, he insists his players are embracing the moment and showing signs of rediscovering their rhythm after a patchy spell of form.
The manager also stressed that the season remains at an early stage, warning against overreacting to the current table and praising Derek McInnes for the strong start Hearts have made since his appointment. Rodgers spoke ahead of the match, offering his reflections on the task ahead and Celtic’s approach.
He said: (Sky Sports), “Clearly it’s a big game, but I always tend to say that they are big games. People talk about pressure games and big games — every time you play for Celtic, it’s a big game.
“Going to Tynecastle at whatever time of the season is always a tough game, but we arrive in there in a much better place.
“This group doesn’t find itself as the chaser very often… Not so early in the season.
“Thankfully, as I said, it’s a long season. Hearts have started well, doing the basics of the game well.
“We’ve got a manager in Derek who knows his way around Scottish football and gets his teams well organised and well prepared.
“There’s no challenging phases as we just need to be better within ourselves.“
Celtic enter the match under pressure to close the gap on the leaders, but Rodgers’ tone was one of calm assurance rather than alarm. The improvement shown against Sturm Graz offered encouragement, particularly in the team’s energy and aggression after falling behind early.
A strong start on Sunday could be crucial, with Hearts expected to come out fast in front of their home crowd. Rodgers has challenged his players to meet that intensity head-on and show the composure that comes with experience at this level.
The fixture also gives others the chance to step up, particularly in defence, where injuries have forced changes. Rodgers’ belief in the depth of his squad will again be tested, but he remains confident that Celtic’s standards will hold.
While acknowledging Hearts’ form and organisation, the Celtic boss made it clear that his focus remains inward. For Rodgers, the message is simple: rediscover Celtic’s rhythm, maintain belief, and let the football do the talking.
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