Brendan Rodgers Discusses League Cup Ambition, Team Selection Challenges, and Aberdeen’s Threat

Brendan Rodgers addressed the media in anticipation of Celtic’s League Cup semi-final match against Aberdeen on Saturday. Key statements included: The Celtic manager stated that his team is “in a really good place” regarding player availability for Saturday’s game. Captain Callum McGregor is expected to be back, with Odin Thiago Holm being the sole player sidelined due to injury. Regarding Aberdeen’s potential threat, Rodgers commented that Celtic ought to have secured a victory in their previous encounter at Parkhead but were penalized for carelessness, resulting in a 2-2 draw. He further noted that this outcome provides additional proof that Aberdeen possesses skilled players “that can hurt you”. Rodgers indicated that the 2-2 draw against Celtic several weeks prior “will be a learning [experience]” for his squad. Rodgers expressed no surprise concerning Aberdeen’s performance this season, stating his consistent expectation for the Dons to contend for positions at the top of the table. He described the competitive challenge presented by Jimmy Thelin’s team as “healthy” and something that “makes you better”. The manager affirmed that Celtic’s elimination from the League Cup last season “gives us hunger” to win the trophy this year, emphasizing that the team’s current state is significantly improved compared to twelve months ago. He further remarked: “The League Cup was the one that eluded us last season and that didn’t sit comfortably with us.” Addressing team selection, Rodgers admitted to having several choices to consider, stating that “sentiment doesn’t come into it – I need to pick the best team to win the game”.