Brendan Rodgers has been giving his reaction to Saturday afternoon’s comfortable Celtic win over St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership.
The Bhoys ran out 3-1 winners after goals from Kyogo Furuhashi, Nicolas Kuhn and James Forrest, firmly killing off the game before the away side netted a late consolation effort.
It was exactly the performance and result required on a big weekend in the title race. Celtic have now actually moved top of the table ahead of Rangers’ visit to Dundee on Sunday, one point ahead.
Rodgers was understandably happy on media duties in the aftermath, paying tribute to Kuhn in particular for his impact in the game and improvement recently.
Brendan Rodgers on Celtic win over St Johnstone
The manager said [BBC Radio Scotland]: “I’m very pleased, it was a very good performance. The whole stadium, it felt really good today and really connected. From the first whistle, the supporters got behind the team and got their rewards. We scored three goals and could have had more.
“It’s clicked at other times. Sometimes there’s been negativity around how we’ve played. The players worked very hard. The players dealt with the tactical aspect of the game really well.
“There was good penetration. Nicolas Kuhn makes a great cross for the first goal and for the second one he has to make up a lot of ground after our pressing and it’s a great ball by the guys to cross for him to finish.”
Nicolas Kuhn praised by Celtic boss
On Kuhn, Rodgers continued: “For him, it’s been a challenge. When he first came in he was seven to eight kilograms down on his actual weight because he had his wisdom teeth taken out and he couldn’t eat for a couple of weeks.
“That strength was taken away. When you’re as slight as he is, it’s taken time for him to build that muscle again.
“Once he’s done that he’s found his running power and running legs. He’s super quick and dynamic. I just think it’s been a little bit of time for him and you have to be patient. I know players get judged here on half an appearance but he’s starting to show why he was brought in.”
It was certainly pleasing to see Kuhn in such good form. If he can replicate his performance today then he could be a big asset during the title run-in.
The winger will be hoping to retain his place in the line-up away to Livingston after the international break before Celtic set their sights on a massive derby away to Rangers.
We’re all set for a big end to the season and every fan is keeping their fingers crossed that the Bhoys can maintain consistent form.
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