Brendan Rodgers had a clear message for Adam Idah after Celtic’s 2-0 win over Sporting Lisbon at the Estádio Algarve. Idah passed up two big chances in the first half and was taken off at the break with a groin issue, said to be precautionary.
Johnny Kenny came on in his place and made an instant impact, winning a penalty that Reo Hatate converted and helping create the second for Luke McCowan. Rodgers’ comments suggest frustration and a push for more urgency from his striker.
Even with Idah missing chances, Celtic stayed in control. After the break, Rodgers’ team looked sharper, and Kenny gave the attack a lift. His movement caused problems, and once Hatate scored from the spot, Celtic pushed on confidently. McCowan’s goal came from good build-up play, helped by Kenny again. The contrast between Idah’s sluggish first half and Kenny’s strong second was obvious.
After the match, Rodgers didn’t hold back. He called on Idah to raise his level, especially with the new season close. He made it clear that quick thinking, smart movement, and authority in front of goal are non-negotiable at this level, even in pre-season.
Kenny made the most of his chance. He won the penalty within minutes of coming on and had a key role in the second goal. His sharpness and attitude stood out. With performances like that, Rodgers will know he’s got real competition up front, and Idah has a fight on his hands to keep his place.
He said: (RecordSport), “He needs to come alive. You can’t be caught thinking at this level.
“You have to anticipate and move and then have authority in the box. I know he can score goals and it’s also the time of pre-season.”
Rodgers’ comments highlight an important part of pre-season: being ready for real matches and taking chances when they come. With the new campaign just around the corner, the manager wants players to treat these games seriously, not just for fitness but to prepare for the demands of proper competition.
Kenny’s strong showing puts pressure on Idah to step up. Celtic’s strikers are making their case during pre-season, and Rodgers will be looking for sharp, reliable finishing. The message is simple. Those who start must deliver, and those on the bench are ready to take their chance.
Now back in Glasgow, the focus moves to building sharpness and keeping up the pace without falling into bad habits. Idah might still have a big moment to come, but Rodgers has made it clear. Players need to be more switched on and show a cutting edge when chances appear.
Whether it’s in Portugal or back home, chances at this level are limited and they have to be taken. Rodgers is not wasting time with passengers. He wants players switched on and ready for the real stuff.
