Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has discussed the need for his players to maintain the high standards they have kept for much of the season. With the Scottish Cup final fast approaching, Rodgers made it clear that the focus within the squad must remain sharp as they aim to finish the campaign on a high.
Celtic face Hibernian on Saturday at Celtic Park with just two more league games to follow that before the season wraps up. After giving the squad a couple of well-earned rest days over the past two weeks, Brendan Rodgers is hopeful the team will come out firing on all cylinders against David Gray’s side.
With the title already secured and a cup final looming, Rodgers is managing the balance between recovery and sharpness as Celtic look to maintain their momentum — with a number of key players, including Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, and Kasper Schmeichel, all aiming to be fit in time for Hampden.
The Irishman knows how important the Scottish Cup final is, as it would seal a domestic treble for Celtic. Over the next two weeks, Rodgers will manage the squad carefully to make sure the players are fresh and ready, while still aiming to win the remaining games. If Celtic beat Aberdeen on May 24th, it would be his third domestic treble as manager of the Hoops.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “It’s very important not to (drift). We’ve obviously had a few days after the Dundee United game, a few days now after Ibrox.
“Now, we’ve got 18 days to get super focused on the remaining games and the Scottish Cup final. So it’s important that the players and the staff, and the people, can enjoy the success which we’ve had up until this point.
“But now, as I said, from today, there are 18 days left in the season for us to train like animals every single day, and recover the very best way that we can in those days off. Then, we get ready, get prepared and take on the games. We have got three games now in a week before we head into the Scottish Cup final.
“So, for us, and being a Celtic player, this is what it’s all about. This is a massive part of the season now, and we want to finish it.
“If we do that, then it can be a real historical season for us.”
It’s a strong message from Rodgers to the team. He has been firm but fair over the past six weeks, criticising the players when needed but also giving them time off after big results and emotionally tiring games.
Rodgers knows it’s important to balance being tough with giving players rest, helping them stay focused and motivated while also saving energy for the final weeks of the season.
The Irishman has been through it before, managing fitness before a cup final to secure a treble. Given his own incredibly high standards, he will be hoping that those who come into the team over the next two weeks can perform at their best.
It’s certainly an exciting time to be a Celtic supporter, and Rodgers is clearly looking to keep spirits high ahead of the cup final with the Irishman making sure the team stays focused and motivated for the final three league games.
