Brendan Rodgers is known for demanding high standards at Celtic and that hasn’t changed this pre-season amid his recent assessment of two promising Hoops youngsters.
The Irishman’s tactical framework imposes certain demands on the squad, whether that be in or out of possession.
In a lot of ways, Rodgers’ mindset isn’t too different from successful Celtic managers in between his two tenures. Ultimately, a good system is a winning one, and there is no margin for error when forging an environment to achieve desired results.
Roared on by an expectant support, Celtic are judged solely on silverware. Unlike other clubs around the world, trophies are everything in Glasgow’s east end and players need to stand up and be counted to turn these aspirations into reality.
Talent is rarely enough, and he has now delivered an honest assessment of two men in his squad who, if they apply these traits, can reach the next level.
Brendan Rodgers on Odin Thiago Holm and Bosun Lawal
Speaking to The Daily Record, Rodgers has shown his ruthless side by challenging Odin Thiago Holm and Bosun Lawal to hit new heights in pre-season by having a greater influence on proceedings, with and without the ball.
He explained: “They need to be a much higher level. If you’re going to play for Celtic, you have to be. Odin needs to do more. There’s something there, though, absolutely.
“And that’s why we persevere, and that’s why we stay with it, because he has talent, like Bosun Lawal, and that’s why we want to give them the opportunity, so I can see them in pre-season.
“But, it’s just running more. You have to run. Without the ball, you’ve got to run, you’ve got to be bright, you’ve got to be in good positions to press the game, then to get the ball and take the ball.”
Later on, Rodgers finished by saying: “So I think the two boys that you mentioned have talent. But I want more. A lot more. Talent is not just enough. You can play in teams, but not in our team.”
Brendan Rodgers isn’t messing around this pre-season
Reality checks are never a bad thing in football, and in Holm and Lawal’s case, Rodgers is clearly sending them a message because he believes in the talent both players possess.
Referencing perseverance is the giveaway here. If he didn’t think they had what it took, it isn’t as if he has any problem moving individuals on, as seen over the last few months.
Nevertheless, both midfielders must work hard to convince Rodgers they are worthy of a genuine first-team shot. Paulo Bernardo is closing in on a Celtic return from Benfica, which may make their task an uphill battle.
There are spaces to be fought for this term. Hopefully, the pair can heed Rodgers’ advice and make their mark in the engine room.
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