Brendan Rodgers gave a measured but honest assessment of Celtic’s goalless draw against Rangers at Ibrox, calling the Glasgow Derby a game of “low quality” while praising his side’s defensive resilience.
Celtic struggled to create chances throughout the match, failing to register a shot on target until deep into the second half. While they were solid at the back, the lack of spark in the final third was clear, with Rodgers admitting creativity is still missing from his side.
The Irishman highlighted the positives of a clean sheet at Ibrox, pointing to Celtic’s early-season defensive record as something to build on. But his post-match comments made it clear that there’s plenty of work still to be done, particularly in attack.
Rodgers didn’t shy away from the shortcomings in his team’s performance, while suggesting improvement will need to come quickly.
He said: (Sky Sports), “I think a positive for us is obviously we didn’t concede.
“I think over the course of the beginning of the season we’ve been difficult to beat you show that resilience and coming to Ibrox, no matter when it is, it’s always a tough place to come. So to come and not concede a shot on goal is really good.
“My overall feeling is that the game is of low quality. We had only a couple of shots on target, they didn’t have any. It wouldn’t have been a great watch.
“But I think overall we look on ourselves. Like what I felt for a wee period, we need to be much more creative and find ways to be that.”
Rodgers’ words summed up what many Celtic fans were thinking as the team struggled to create chances. The defence held up well, especially Liam Scales and Cameron Carter-Vickers, but the attack looked disjointed and the midfield didn’t link the play.
Rodgers’ message was simple: Celtic need to be better going forward. With only hours left in the transfer window, attention turns to what the club will do to fix the clear lack of creativity and attacking options.
Celtic are still unbeaten in the league but games like this at Ibrox won’t be enough if they want to stay ahead. The defence looks solid but the lack of goal threat is a real problem.
What happens before the window closes will be key. Rodgers knows this team can’t rely on clean sheets forever and they need more quality in attack to push on.
