Celtic Manager Brendan Rodgers Lauds Fans’ Support Ahead of Key Season Finale
In an emotive gathering last Saturday, Celtic fans assembled in large numbers to send off their team ahead of the crucial Glasgow derby. The unexpected scale of the send-off left a significant mark on both the players and the manager, Brendan Rodgers, as they head into a defining stretch of the season.
As the coaching staff and players arrived to get the bus, they anticipated a couple of hundred fans would show up but it turned into a massive crowd, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Reflecting on the moment, Rodgers shared his awe and appreciation for the fans’ passionate display.
“There was a big impact, it was absolutely amazing,” Rodgers remarked. “They told me here, ‘When we get to the stadium there’ll be a couple hundred supporters’, then I got a call as I was coming up towards saying they’d miscalculated it, I turned around and the lights, seeing everyone was such a huge lift.”
This remarkable turnout provided an unexpected boost to the team. “Did it surprise me, no, the support of the club is incredible and without being able to be at the stadium that was their way of giving us a great send off and it was amazing,” he told Celtic TV. “I know a lot of the new guys were taken aback, as was I, because it gave us that real lift driving away.”
Rodgers also issued a rallying cry to the Celtic faithful, making clear the critical role their support plays as the team navigates the final six games of the season and a cup game. Asked to send a message to fans ahead of the tight title run-in, Rodgers said: “Just keep the faith, keep giving us that incredible support because it really makes a difference,” he urged. “I’m sure there’ll be some edgy moments throughout the six games and in the cup game but keep the faith, keep with the team, give us everything and we’ll give you everything on the pitch.”
The Glasgow derby ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, a result that puts Celtic’s destiny firmly in their own hands. Victory in all their remaining matches would secure the title.
However, challenges lie ahead. The team will face St Mirren at Celtic Park this coming Saturday without key players. Maeda is sidelined due to a hamstring injury, and Liam Scales also misses the tie through injury, compounding the difficulties for Rodgers’ squad.
As the season nears its climax, Celtic Park is expected to be a cauldron of support, urging their team forward towards the title. Rodgers’ message is clear: the unity between the fans and the team could very well be the catalyst that propels Celtic to glory.
