Brendan Rodgers Addresses Pyrotechnics, Squad Rotation, and Schmeichel’s “World-Class” Performance

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers addressed the media ahead of his team’s Scottish Premiership fixture against Hibs scheduled for Saturday. Key points from his press conference included: Regarding his Manager of the Month award for November, Rodgers described it as a “collective” achievement and commended his players for their “fantastically well” performances. Rodgers addressed questions concerning Celtic potentially facing a fine due to supporters deploying pyrotechnics during last month’s League Cup semi-final victory, stating he doesn’t “see what it adds to the game”. He further commented, “It’s right they look into it and try to stop it, hopefully.” He emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of both fans in the stands and players on the pitch. The Celtic semi-final experienced a delay after pyrotechnics were ignited, and Rodgers suggested that the players “standing about” during this interruption could have readily resulted in muscle injuries. The Celtic manager noted that the extensive quality within his squad has enabled him to implement rotation amidst a demanding fixture calendar, which has consequently contributed to a decrease in injuries. He confirmed there are no new injury worries ahead of Hibs’ match at Parkhead. Regarding Hibs, Rodgers expressed his delight that his counterpart, David Gray, has begun to achieve more favorable outcomes in recent weeks, adding that he believes they have been “unfortunate in some games.” Reflecting on Wednesday’s victory against Aberdeen, Rodgers commended goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel for his display despite adverse weather. He stated, “He’s a world-class shot-stopper, he’s great with his feet and his handling is so clean.” Rodgers also light-heartedly remarked that the central defensive duo of Cameron Carter-Vickers and Auston Trusty had seemingly conspired to “make themselves look heroic” during a late incident at Pittodrie, when Carter-Vickers blocked Ester Sokler’s shot, sending it over the crossbar.