Brendan Rodgers has revealed the key message he’s delivered to his Celtic players ahead of Wednesday night’s crucial Champions League qualifying play-off first leg against Kairat Almaty.
The manager acknowledged the uncertainty some players may be feeling around their futures, but made it clear that focus and professionalism must take priority ahead of such an important European night.
Speaking to CeltsAreHere, Rodgers explained how he addressed the situation with his squad, urging them to stay grounded and committed as speculation continues to swirl in the background.
He said: “I mentioned this a few weeks ago to the players. I think it’s important to set the narrative for them… because some players will be thinking, are they staying, are they going?
“The money will be in your bank every month. And it’ll be from Celtic, whilst it is you need to perform. So, you don’t need to worry about anything else.
“We start that process every day in training, doing the very best that we can, pushing each other, demanding. And then we’ll take that into the games.
“You see it in their attitude in the game, the energy in the games, they’ve been very, very good. Now we have to keep this going.”
With the first leg at Celtic Park, Rodgers knows how important it is to get a strong result before the return match in Kazakhstan. His aim is to keep the players focused, calm, and ready to deliver.
Celtic have handled the early part of the season well, and Rodgers says the team’s mindset has come from the hard work and standards set in training.
His message is simple: shut out the noise, stick to the plan, and keep up the level they’ve shown through pre-season and the first few games.
The next two weeks could shape Celtic’s season in Europe, and Rodgers has made sure every player knows what’s ahead and what’s needed.
