Celtic were deserved 2-1 victors over St. Mirren midweek. It was a win that encapsulated the Hoops’ never-say-die attitude.
In the game itself, the substitutes that were brought on by manager Brendan Rodgers made a notable difference. Pundit and ex-Celt Chris Sutton thinks, though, they are not at the same level as those who were coming off the bench this time last year.
Sutton believes Rodgers is ‘hoping’ not ‘expecting’ an impact from those from the bench. He said (Daily Record): “You only have to go back 12 months and look at the Celtic squad. It was arguably stronger. There were times when Postecoglou could make four or five subs and it would actually strengthen the side. At the moment I get the sense Rodgers is making changes in games and hoping the replacements make an impact rather than expecting it.”
There were many departures at Celtic over the summer whether it be through players retiring or joining new clubs unexpectedly. To replace many of these assets, the club have signed what Rodgers regularly describes as ‘development players’.
They have impressed in their brief time in Glasgow, but Sutton’s point remains valid. In terms of position in the league, however, much hasn’t changed.
This time last year, in a similar fashion, the Celts were five points clear at the top of the table. At the stage we are at now compared to that of the last campaign, the Bhoys are just one point worse off.
Although it can be argued that the quality of the squad has lessened, not much has altered in terms of results. This is only positive for the Bhoys and despite managerial change, normal service has remained.
