Celtic have chosen not to take advantage of a new SPFL rule allowing clubs to postpone a league match ahead of a key European qualifier.
The rule, introduced this season, gives Premiership sides the option to move one league fixture from round three if they reach the play-off stage of any UEFA competition.
The move is designed to provide clubs with a clear week between the first and second legs of their play-off ties, easing fixture congestion and allowing for maximum preparation.
Several clubs are expected to make use of the change, including Rangers, but Celtic will not and their match against Livingston will go ahead as planned.
Explaining the decision, Rodgers said: “It’s early in the season, it’s at home, and we feel we’ll be getting up to speed at that point. We’ve got a big squad and will obviously have the midweek game, then that game on the Saturday. It’s a home game — no travel — and we feel it’s still a game we want to play.” [Celtic TV]
It’s fair enough, and after watching the side last Sunday against St Mirren, you can see why some extra minutes in the legs may be needed. Some of the players are still getting up to speed and are looking a bit leggy.
Livingston shouldn’t throw up too many issues at Parkhead, and Brendan Rodgers will hopefully be able to protect some players, from the start or from points in the second half.
So, as expected, Brendan Rodgers’ side will go ahead with their scheduled match that falls between the two legs of their Champions League play-off.
