Johnny Kenny has made it clear he’s happy to let Brendan Rodgers take the lead when it comes to deciding his immediate future at Celtic.
The striker, who returned to the Hoops in January after a loan spell with Shamrock Rovers, has been training with the first team under the watchful eye of the manager.
The 22-year-old knows regular game time is essential at this stage of his development, but he’s also confident that Rodgers has his best interests at heart. Kenny hasn’t featured regularly for the Hoops yet, but his belief in the Rodgers’ guidance appears to be rock solid.
Kenny’s admiration for Rodgers shines through in the way he speaks about their relationship . From individual chats to public encouragement in front of the squad, the Irish forward believes he’s been treated with respect and clarity by the Celtic boss.
Kenny is now entering the final year of his current deal, and while no extension has been signed, Kenny has said he’s open to committing his future to the club. He’s also willing to go back out on loan this season if that’s what’s required to earn a more prominent role when he returns.
He said: (TCW), “I’ll leave it to the manager to make a decision on that. Wherever I am, obviously I want to play football.
“I want to develop myself and I think playing games is going to develop me.
“Obviously, I also want to break into the national team and I think playing games is the way I’m going to get into that team.
“Whatever the manager decides, I think he’ll have a pathway for me. I don’t think he’s going to keep me here and not play me. So, whatever the manager decides I’m all behind it.
“Everything he’s told me since January has been 100-per-cent, so I believe in the manager. My confidence is high at the moment and I think that comes from the manager.
“As I said, since I came back, the manager – the way he spoke to me in front of the group and individually – it’s just been amazing.
“I think it’s all down to him and I hope to get opportunities to repay him.“
Kenny’s situation reflects the bigger picture for young players at Celtic trying to break into a title-winning side. Game time is precious, and when it’s limited, the right loan move can make all the difference. But having a manager willing to offer honest feedback and a clear pathway counts for just as much.
The Sligo-born forward is clearly in no rush to force a move, opting instead to wait for Rodgers’ advice on what’s best for his career. That patience might yet earn him more chances in the senior side over pre-season.
Celtic’s decision on Kenny is likely to be influenced by their transfer activity in the weeks ahead. If reinforcements arrive up top, another loan could make sense to keep him sharp and progressing.
Kenny, for his part, seems prepared to take that path, sign a new deal, head back out for regular football, and return next summer aiming to make a bigger impact in green and white.
