Brendan Rodgers was in no mood to entertain talk about Rangers’ future after Celtic’s 1-1 draw at Ibrox this afternoon. With the league title already wrapped up the week before at Tannadice, the Irishman kept his focus firmly on his own team – and sent a clear message that Celtic’s standards shouldn’t be downplayed by questions about whether Rangers will be better next season.
Rodgers has never been one for getting caught up in the noise from outside. With Celtic 17 points clear at the top of the table and boasting a massive goal difference, he was right to bring attention back to what the Bhoys have achieved. Celtic were ruthless in their title push and have shown again why they are the top team in Scotland.
While the draw at Ibrox might have given Rangers fans some pride, it changes nothing about the bigger picture. Celtic are champions, and they’re not finished yet – with a Scottish Cup final still to come and the chance to wrap up a domestic treble.
Rodgers was also asked about Barry Ferguson, who has taken over at Rangers on a short-term basis and could be in line for the job full-time if the club’s takeover goes through.
He said: (BBC Sport), “It’s not my problem to worry about Rangers being stronger. There’s always a narrative around ‘will they be better next season?’
“That diminishes the standard, or the narrative, about what Celtic have achieved. I’m only worried about Celtic – us getting better, us improving.
“If the takeover happens, and Barry stays… he has given everything in his time here. He and his staff might feel they deserve that opportunity to build a squad. If they go with that next year, then great. They will want to be better.
“My concern is healthy. We leave here today 17 points clear, massive goal difference. Our game has gotten better in the two years I’ve been here. We want to go again next year.”
Whether Ferguson gets the job or not, it’s clear Rodgers has his sights set on raising the bar again next season. Celtic have shown real strength and consistency this season, and Rodgers wants even more from the team. His focus on improvement, rather than outside noise, is what keeps this Celtic team ahead of the pack.
There’s always talk after the final whistle at Ibrox about what comes next for Rangers, but from a Celtic point of view, the important thing is that the club keeps moving forward. Rodgers’ comments remind everyone that Celtic’s success shouldn’t be overshadowed by speculation about Rangers next season. The Hoops are champions for a reason – because they’ve been the best team in the country all season.
With a Scottish Cup final on the horizon and the chance to seal another treble, Celtic are not just looking back on a strong campaign – they’re already building for the next one. That’s the difference. While others talk about closing the gap, Rodgers is working to widen it.
