Brendan Rodgers has left the door open for Jota to start against Bayern Munich in Celtic’s massive Champions League second leg at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday night.
The Portuguese winger was back in the starting XI at the weekend, playing a key role in Celtic’s 3-0 victory over Dundee United and getting on the scoresheet. With Celtic needing to overturn a 2-1 deficit to keep their European dream alive, Rodgers was asked if Jota could be trusted to start in the club’s biggest game of the season.
Rodgers responded with confidence, saying the winger is physically improving and could be called upon if needed.
“Yes, if we decide that’s what we need to do, he can start the game,” Rodgers told Celtic TV.
“There’s no doubt he’s working his way back to his highest level physically in terms of how I want the team to press, but there’s no doubt he can look after the ball. In arenas like this here, you need players that can take the ball and look after it.”
“He’s a wonderful player. I’ve seen the talent now close up. I’ve seen it in the games. It’s just about working his way back to that highest level. If I need him to start, he’s ready to start.”
A Big Call for Rodgers
Jota’s technical ability and composure in possession could be crucial against a Bayern side that will dominate the ball for large spells. Celtic struggled in the first leg, particularly in the first half when they failed to register a shot on target. It was only after Rodgers introduced Jota and Yang in the second half that Celtic started to threaten, with Jota’s quality helping shift momentum late on. Not to mention if Jota and Kuhn start you would imagine Maeda would get the nod up front.
With Celtic needing to find at least one goal to keep their hopes alive, Jota’s creativity and ability to retain possession in tight spaces could be a valuable asset. However, Rodgers has also highlighted the importance of pressing intensity, which could influence his final decision.
