Brendan Rodgers was full of encouragement for 17-year-old Sean McArdle after the youngster made his first-team debut in Celtic’s 3-1 win over Hibernian this afternoon at Celtic Park.

McArdle was introduced in the 85th minute, replacing Arne Engels, as Celtic closed out a comfortable victory. The midfielder, who has impressed with the B team, was handed his opportunity on a day when the home side dictated the tempo and took control early through goals from Nicolas Kuhn, Adam Idah and Reo Hatate.

Speaking after the match, Rodgers reiterated his commitment to developing young talent within the club’s youth system. The Irishman did, however, temper the excitement, stressing that McArdle still has a long road ahead.

He said: (Sky Sports), “There is always a pathway here for young players. It’s getting that opportunity to come in.

“Sean has done well with the B team. He’s 17 years of age so to come out and get that feeling was great for him.

“He needs to build on that now. He’s got that feeling. He’s not a first team player yet. He’s had an opportunity.

“He’s shown personality when he’s come on and now he needs to speak to Callum McGregor and the guys who have come through the system.

“But now the really hard work begins to try and sustain that.”

McArdle’s appearance marks another step in Celtic’s efforts to bring through youth, with Rodgers keen to see the teenager take inspiration from those who have risen through the ranks—something that hasn’t happened consistently in recent years.

Too often, promising young players have left Parkhead before making their senior breakthrough. McArdle will hope to change that.

The win also sees Celtic stretch their lead at the top of the table to 20 points over Rangers, having already wrapped up the league title. Barry Ferguson’s side are in action against Aberdeen at Ibrox tomorrow afternoon.