Hearts manager Derek McInnes has spoken highly of Brendan Rodgers ahead of Sunday’s top-of-the-table meeting between his side and Celtic at Tynecastle.
Celtic travel to Tynecastle on a high after their 2-1 Europa League win over Sturm Graz, while Hearts sit at the summit of the Premiership after a strong start under McInnes. It sets up one of the most intriguing fixtures of the season so far, with both sides in good form and plenty at stake.
McInnes acknowledged the scale of the challenge but made clear that his team would approach the game with belief and ambition. He praised Rodgers’ tactical quality and the intensity of Celtic’s play but insisted that Hearts would look to compete and make the most of their home advantage.
McInnes outlined his respect for Rodgers and what he expects from Sunday’s game.
He said: (RecordSport), “Obviously Celtic over the years has always provided the toughest challenge for everybody. I’ve come up against Brendan’s teams often enough and he’s a top operator.
“His team, when they play at their best with that real speed and connection and goal threats, they’re difficult to play against at times.
“They’re the team that tests your organisation the most, the team that tests your discipline the most.
“I say every game is a challenge but every game for us is an opportunity and we should go into the game exactly the way we are. We should feel there’s a result in there for us if we perform.
“So I don’t want us to be cowed by the fact that Celtic are coming – I think we’ve got to relish it.“
McInnes’ comments struck the right tone, full of respect for Celtic but with plenty of self-belief about what his Hearts side can do. The Tynecastle boss knows the size of the task against Brendan Rodgers’ team but wasn’t shy about saying his players should embrace it rather than fear it.
He’s right to point out how good Celtic are when they hit top gear. Under Rodgers, the Hoops play at a relentless pace at times, with sharp passing and constant movement that can tear teams apart. McInnes has faced that kind of performance before, and he knows exactly what it looks like when Celtic find their rhythm.
Still, the Hearts boss clearly believes his team can make it a proper contest. His side have been organised, tough, and consistent this season, and he’s backing them to stay disciplined while taking their chances when they come. It’s the kind of approach most teams need at Tynecastle if they’re going to cause Celtic problems.
With both Rodgers and McInnes in good form and plenty of mutual respect between them, Sunday’s clash has all the makings of a big one. Celtic will look to build on their midweek win and keep the pressure at the top, while Hearts will see this as a chance to prove they belong in that conversation. It’s set up perfectly, a test of Celtic’s momentum and Hearts’ ambition.
