News

Adam Idah explains why Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has been ‘massive’ for him personally

Add as preferred source on Google

Brendan Rodgers finally saw his wish granted during the week as Adam Idah returned to Celtic on a permanent deal from Norwich City.

The Irishman made his feelings clear after the Cork-born man’s last-minute heroics against Rangers in the Scottish Cup final, and they eventually delivered following weeks of speculation.

Celtic have signed Idah for an initial £8.5 million outlay. Factoring in add-ons, the transfer could be worth £9.5 million, alongside his old club retaining a 15% sell-on clause.

Most Celtic supporters agree he will be worth every penny. Scoring nine times in 19 games last season, his vital contribution was the catalyst for the Bhoys claiming a domestic double.

With big money comes heightened expectations. Former Hoops man Andy Walker predicted that Idah will go on to be Celtic’s first-choice striker, amplifying the point.

Nevertheless, Idah has already illustrated he is the man for the big occasion in Glasgow, and he has delivered some insight regarding why Rodgers has been a huge influence on his confidence to deliver.

Adam Idah on the belief Brendan Rodgers has in his talent

Speaking in his first media conference since joining the club permanently, Idah has delved into why Celtic boss Rodgers has helped to build his confidence and how he has positively influenced his mindset.

He stated [The Scotsman]: “He’s seen me before when I was at Norwich. I think he’s seen what qualities I’ve got. It’s just to simplify things. Don’t try too hard. Be you. I think having a manager that has that confidence in you is massive for me and just makes everything so simple for me. I think what he’s done for me has been huge and I’m just delighted to carry it on.

Celtic v Rangers - Scottish Cup Final
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images

“I haven’t spoken to him too much yet (since being back), but I’m sure there’s lots of things that I can improve on. I think this club is the perfect place for me to develop on things that I do need to improve on.

“I’m sure I’ll sit down with lots of the staff and briefly go over some things, what I can do better and what I need to maintain. I think this is the best place for me to come and go to the next level.”

Brendan Rodgers is the ideal manager for Idah to work under

You only have to look at Idah’s observations to gather why the pair share a relationship that helped the Irish striker regularly get himself on the scoresheet last term.

Admittedly, eyebrows were raised among the Celtic support when a forward that had scored 17 goals in 115 appearances for Norwich City was Rodgers’ choice on deadline day. Still, I’m sure any lingering doubts have vanished into oblivion by now.

The environment a player is in becomes crucial to maximise their output. Idah found himself in a different script at Celtic, which allowed him to showcase a true reflection of his talent.

Now, he is ready to go to the next level at the Bhoys. Hopefully, he can hit the goal trail again and play an important part in the club creating further history over the next few years.