Match

Brendan Rodgers explains his actions towards Colby Donovan moments after Celtic’s win at Firhill 

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Celtic’s injury problems at right-back seemed to have benefited Colby Donovan.

Alistair Johnston has been injured since the end of August, and not long after, Anthony Ralston followed suit after dropping out of Scotland’s fixtures for the September international break.

That has opened the door for academy youngster Donovan to start more matches, and it’s fair to say that he is taking the chances provided to him by Brendan Rodgers.

On Sunday, Celtic beat Partick Thistle to reach the last four of the League Cup, and Donovan impressed again in the senior colours.

Brendan Rodgers points to a Celtic player during the Champions League game against Kairat Almaty
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images

Brendan Rodgers pushes Colby Donovan towards Celtic fans after win over Partick Thistle

After the game, the Celtic players and the coaching staff went over to applaud and thank the away supporters.

Rodgers walks across to several players and shakes their hands, before going over towards Donovan, pulling his arm and pushing him towards the fans.

It would have been a great moment for the young kid, especially given that he is a boyhood Celtic fan.

What Rodgers said about Donovan

When Rodgers was doing his post-match interview with Premier Sports, he talked up Donovan, what he is like away from the pitch and why he pushed him over towards the fans.

The Celtic manager explained how he is someone who ‘isn’t frightened’, as well as allowing him that ‘feeling’ of being appreciated by his own fans.

“He’s very good,” said Rodgers. “I love his personality. His whole game as a player, and you see how he defends.

“But he has got quality with the ball. He isn’t frightened of anything, so I have been so pleased for him.

“In that wee moment in the end, you come through and you are waiting your life for that moment. You think about it. You have dreamt about it.

“So, to give him that feeling, it will give him a little boost with the supporters.”