Brendan Rodgers has come to the defence of Adam Idah after the striker found the net but also passed up several opportunities in Celtic’s 3-1 win over Hibernian at Celtic Park. The Irishman’s goal contributed to a positive result, though his overall finishing once again drew mixed reviews.
Idah, who signed permanently from Norwich City in the summer, has been involved heavily at times throughout the campaign. While he has chipped in with important goals, question marks remain among some over whether he’s the long-term answer to lead the line on a consistent basis.
Speaking after the match, Rodgers was quick to highlight Idah’s broader impact and everything he brings to the team.
He said: (TCW), “Yeah, Adam’s been fantastic for us, and in his first season, he’s only going to get better and better.
“I think the thing with Adam is that what probably the crowd and people see is when we play these strikers, like Kyogo and Daizen, they’re so explosive, so they’re so off the mark, their acceleration is incredible.
“He has power and he has speed also, and you see his movement to get in, but he’s a different type of striker. His contribution over the course of the season has been so, so important for us, not just domestically, but at the highest level. One striker cannot play all the games that we play, but I’ve been really pleased with him.”
Idah has produced a steady return in front of goal, particularly in big games where his physicality has proved valuable. He’s also chipped in with assists and helped link up play in the final third when Celtic have faced deep defensive blocks.
Idah’s performances in Europe offered a glimpse of his potential at a higher level, with Rodgers trusting him in big moments. Though his conversion rate remains an area for improvement, his work rate and positional play have earned praise from Rodgers.
With his first full season nearing its end, Idah will be looking to finish strong and further stake his claim to be Celtic’s first-choice striker heading into next season. Rodgers’ continued backing suggests the door remains wide open.
