Brendan Rodgers spoke ahead of the Europa League clash with Sturm Graz and highlighted both the pressure and pride that come with managing the Hoops.
Rodgers admitted that the team’s recent form has fallen below the expected standard and stressed the importance of using that disappointment as fuel for a response on the European stage. He spoke about the need for composure under pressure and urged his players to channel the demands of the occasion into progress.
The Irishman also acknowledged the link between performance and supporter satisfaction. After a frustrating result at the weekend, he said the players’ responsibility goes beyond points, it’s about restoring pride and joy among the Celtic support.
Finally, Rodgers touched on his team selection, highlighting the value of fresh energy and returning players. He believes the additions will bring the pace, aggression, and physical edge required to compete at European level.
He said: (Celtic TV), “Celtic, every single game that you play with Celtic is a must-win. I go back to 2016, my first game against Lincoln Red Imps — after the game, it wasn’t so pleasant. So I knew from that first game that every single game is a must-win game. Tonight is no different.
“We want to show that we can recover from the setback and have that motivation to go and put in a performance. The best players I’ve worked with over my career turn these pressure situations into progress — and that’s what we want to see.
“For the team, firstly, it would be very, very important. We’re coming off a really disappointing performance at the weekend… We want to increase the joy and the happiness of Celtic supporters, and the way you can do that is by performing well on the field.
“It’ll give us the legs and the intensity that we want. Ali (Johnston) obviously gets into the positions from behind… In Europe last year, Arne (Engels) was excellent for us. Those two coming in, hopefully, will give us that little extra bit of physicality.“
Rodgers’ message before kick-off was clear, he expects a strong response, not just in result but in attitude. He wants to see his side take ownership of the moment, turning pressure into an opportunity to prove themselves on the European stage.
The Celtic Boss’ comments show a determination to steady the side and to remind players of the standards expected when wearing the shirt. With Celtic Park under the lights, the emphasis was on intensity, spirit, and unity.
Rodgers’ belief that fresh energy and physicality can reignite the team will be tested against a Sturm Graz side full of confidence. The challenge is as much mental as tactical, but the tone set by the manager leaves no room for excuses.
As Celtic aim to bounce back from recent setbacks, Rodgers’ comments act as both motivation and warning, pressure comes with the badge, and performances must rise to meet it.
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One Response
I find it interesting to read that Rodgers is trying to make it look like he cares now!
The fact is if he really cared about Celtic, and not just Brendan Rodgers, he’d resign now. His presence is toxic and damaging to the morale of the players.
What we did tonight was in spite of Rodgers, not because of him!