LEIGH GRIFFITHS has praised Brendan Rodgers for noticing the player was in trouble late last year and made quick moves to get the striker out of the limelight.

The Celtic striker is back with the squad and got a goal against Pinkafield in Celtic’s first pre-season friendly. Reflecting on last season and the issues he had, the Celtic frontman admitted he was grateful for Rodgers’ intervention.

Speaking to SunSport Leigh said: “Brendan noticed it and that’s why he’s managed at the top — he can notice these slight little things. The players started to see it, too. I did try to battle through it. I had to — it’s my job.

“I can’t just phone up one day and say ‘Look, I’m not coming to training’.

“But that’s why I was grateful to the manager. He saw it and gave me the time off I needed.

“I’ve got a huge gratitude to Celtic because without their help I wouldn’t be back.

Leigh has always had the support of the Celtic fans through this difficult. period. The game after it was announced the player would be taking a leave of absence the Green Brigade held up a banner saying it was ok not to be ok – the sentiment echoed by the rest of the club.

The striker wants to make up for lost time and is ready to get going this season.

“I’m just looking forward now.

“I’ve started off well and I just want it to continue.

“I’m feeling brilliant, and I have been for the past couple of weeks now.

“I’ve been training hard over the summer and didn’t really get much of a break.”

Celtic have another two pre-season friendlies before returning to Glasgow so they can prepare for their first Champions League qualifier.

Leigh will be working under the man who signed him for Celtic after Rodgers departure and there seems to be a good rapport between Neil and Leigh.