Chris Sutton’s comments on Sky Sports during Celtic’s 5-1 win at Pittodrie captured what many Celtic fans have been quietly thinking. Maik Nawrocki, largely sidelined this season, delivered a statement performance when called upon.
Despite only five appearances across all competitions this season, Nawrocki has rarely looked out of place. Against Aberdeen, he not only opened the scoring with a thumping header but defended with conviction throughout.
His reading of the game, aerial dominance, and calmness under pressure raised fresh questions about his current place in the pecking order under Rodgers.
It’s been a strange season for the centre-back. Signed with plenty of hope, Nawrocki has struggled to get into the team over the last 18 months. Brendan Rodgers has preferred Liam Scales, Auston Trusty, and even young Dane Murray ahead of him this season. Despite this, Nawrocki has never looked out of place when he’s played. In fact, he’s often done very well.
He said: (Sky Sports), “Nawrocki just bullies Keskinen. He says ‘get out of the way’. Reads the flight of the ball brilliantly. The header is sensational. It really is. Powered into the corner.
“He has impressed this season, Nawrocki. Out in the cold, but when he has come in, he has done alright. Sensational header.
“I wonder whether he is one of those players who is growing on Brendan Rodgers.”
It’s been a strange season for the centre-back. Signed with plenty of hope, Nawrocki has struggled to get into the team. Brendan Rodgers has preferred Liam Scales, Auston Trusty, and even young Dane Murray ahead of him. Despite this, Nawrocki has never looked out of place when he’s played. In fact, he’s often done very well.
With the Scottish Cup Final just nine days away, Nawrocki has given Rodgers something to think about. Will he be part of the squad at Hampden? Based on form, he deserves a spot. But going by Rodgers’ past decisions, he might miss out again.
Rodgers often talks about trusting players and keeping the team consistent. But fans are puzzled as to why Nawrocki has been left out so often. It’s hard to understand. If Nawrocki leaves Celtic in the summer, it won’t be because he wasn’t good enough. It will be because he wasn’t given a proper chance.
Last night’s performance was more than just a goal. It showed character. Nawrocki didn’t sulk about being out of the team. He grabbed his chance and gave everything on the pitch. That’s the kind of attitude fans love to see.
He might not have many games left in a Celtic shirt, but Nawrocki made this one count. Whether or not it changes Rodgers’ mind for the final or the future, he’s proven that he has what it takes to play for Celtic. Now, it’s up to Rodgers to decide if he sees a place for him going forward.
