Celtic head into a pivotal Champions League playoff tie on Wednesday night with unrest brewing among the support.

The perceived lack of urgency in the transfer market has prompted criticism, as fans grow increasingly vocal over the club’s summer business.

Brendan Rodgers, however, has shifted the focus beyond immediate signings. The Irishman has spoken about the need for Celtic to push forward in all areas, not just on the pitch, but throughout the club’s wider operations.

Ahead of the fourth-round first leg, Rodgers was keen to stress to CeltsAreHere that success at the elite level requires more than just additions to the playing squad. His comments suggest a longer-term vision, where investment in infrastructure and the academy are seen as equally important.

The call comes at a time when Celtic’s recruitment is under the microscope. With Champions League qualification at stake, many supporters want to see clear ambition reflected in the transfer window. Rodgers acknowledges the expectation but insists the club must grow in the right way.

He said: “Of course, we need to push. We need to always, I said it before the other week, I want Celtic to live in the best possible place it can be on and off the pitch.

“And that’s not only players, that’s about infrastructure, that is academy, that is everything to do with Celtic, getting at the very best operation that we possibly can.

“And I know for that, that will always be about success on the pitch. When you get success on the pitch, everything else flows from that.”

Rodgers’ message points to a bigger plan that goes beyond just signing players in the transfer window. While many supporters want new faces, the manager is looking for changes behind the scenes to help build lasting success.

It’s a tricky balance. Celtic can’t afford to fall behind, but Rodgers’ focus on wider improvements shows he thinks there are bigger issues that need sorted. He’s calling for higher standards in every part of the club.

The team still needs to get results now, even while building for the future. A win on Wednesday night would give everyone a lift and make a stronger case for backing the squad further.

Fans will keep demanding more from the board, but Rodgers has made it clear. Progress has to happen throughout the club, not just on the pitch.