Brendan Rodgers has pinpointed counter-pressing as the standout area of improvement in his Celtic side this season, crediting it as a key foundation for their dominant campaign.

This season, there has been a visible change, with Reo Hatate often playing up next to the striker while out of possession, leading the press for his team. He’s the catalyst for the pressure, with his teammates quickly following and closing the opposition down, leading to many goals in Scotland and Europe.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Premiership trophy lift, the Hoops boss explained how the work done during pre-season, particularly on the defensive aspects of his philosophy, has allowed his team to flourish with and without the ball.

For me, the counter-pressing has been a bit different,” he said on Celtic TV. 

“It has always been a part of my philosophy, and I think that as last season went on, that became better and better, and then we could really hone in on that over the course of pre-season.

“So that, along with some of the slight structural tweaks that we make within the team, has given us that platform really to go and show our football, but our pressing has been really good this season, and obviously our counter-pressing.

“Like I say, when you want to be a team of dominance, it is not all about the skill, it is not all about the talent, as you have to get the ball back, and that has always been our mantra.

“We have maybe 70 per cent of the ball, but that 30 per cent, you have to respect that, and that’s what allows you to have the ball so much.

“From there, we are very clear on how we play.”

Celtic’s improved press has been clear to see, with the team looking more aggressive in transition and better equipped to pin opponents in their own half. It’s a hallmark of Rodgers’ more evolved system and one that has helped deliver another title, with the chance of a domestic Treble still on the table.

Celtic travel to Hampden Park next weekend, where they are looking to win their sixth treble in nine years. A win would also see Brendan Rodgers win his third trophy as Celtic boss.