As Brendan Rodgers prepares to once again take the helm at Celtic, the Parkhead landscape has evolved significantly since his first tenure. There’s one intriguing footnote: Scott Bain remains the only player signed by Rodgers during his initial reign who is still in the building.
The winds of change have swept through Celtic Park under Neil Lennon, and then Ange Postecoglou, and all but one of Rodgers’ signings have departed.
Bain’s journey at Celtic is an interesting tale. Initially brought in as cover and competition for the number one spot, he was given a run of games in cup competitions by Rodgers. The manager even toyed with the idea of making Bain the first-choice goalkeeper, considering dropping the then-established Craig Gordon.
Though Bain never fully established himself as the undisputed first-choice keeper, his performances during cup games proved he was a capable and reliable option between the sticks. Bain was again tried under Neil Lennon, but it didn’t work out. Ange played Bain in a recent game against Hibernian, where he had a few howlers to add to the collection.
It is significant that while Bain is the only Rodgers signing still at the club, there are players who featured prominently under his management still at the club. Captain Callum McGregor and winger James Forrest, both academy products, are both still there. Anthony Ralston too, who Rodgers famously played against PSG when they gave his side a doing.
James Forrest was a big influence in Rodgers’ first term as boss. McGregor became a big part of the Irishman’s side. Since leaving, Callum has grown into the captain’s role and commands the respect of the dressing room.
As Rodgers returns, there will be speculation and excitement regarding new signings and potential tactical shifts. It’s going to be an interesting summer. A new manager will inevitably usher in change. Who will come in and go before the SPFL kick-off in August?
