Brendan Rodgers has praised Marcelo Saracchi after the on-loan left-back marked his second appearance for Celtic with a key assist.
Saracchi arrived from Boca Juniors on loan late in the transfer window and is still building up his match fitness. Rodgers had hinted before kick-off that the plan was to ease him into action, with Kieran Tierney also featuring from the bench.
Despite limited minutes so far, the 27-year-old has already shown flashes of his quality. His ability to step inside and deliver from deeper positions gave Celtic a different option against Kilmarnock’s compact defence at Rugby Park.
Rodgers was pleased with Saracchi’s performance, hailing both his experience and his technical quality, while noting the importance of his cross in helping break down a stubborn Killie backline.
He said: (TCW), “I liked him. He’s a player of experience. He can do that role coming in on the inside. He hasn’t played for a little while, so the plan was to give him an hour, and he did that very well.
“Just again, getting used to the adaptation to the system, he’s coming from maybe fractionally slower play. So for us we want to get the ball more progressive and get it forward quicker.
“In the second half he’s up there and it’s a brilliant cross from that half space, because we talk about that against back fives when you’re switching it and you’re working the ball.
“Making those crosses, it’s difficult for the other team to defend, and he made a great ball, and then that allows Kieran Tierney to come in and play the last 30 minutes or so.”
Rodgers’ comments reflect the value Saracchi can bring as he adjusts to the pace of Scottish football. His crossing ability and positional intelligence already offer Celtic a new dynamic on the left.
The Irishman was also quick to stress the need for patience, with Saracchi still regaining sharpness after a spell without regular action at Boca Juniors. Gradual integration remains the plan, with Tierney providing balance and competition.
Nonetheless, the Uruguayan’s assist was a timely reminder of his quality. Celtic have lacked consistent delivery from wide areas in recent weeks, and Saracchi’s left foot could prove vital in breaking down stubborn Premiership defences.
With Rodgers highlighting his adaptability and experience, Saracchi looks set to play a key role in the weeks ahead as Celtic aim to tighten up defensively while adding more creativity from the flanks.
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