Stephen McGinn singles out ‘huge’ Celtic player who still has key role to play under Brendan Rodgers

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Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers was able to call on his squad strength last night as the Bhoys dug deep to see off Aberdeen at Pittodrie.

Despite navigating a task against a sturdy opponent, the Bhoys continued to probe and eventually got their reward following an excellent finish from Reo Hatate just over ten minutes from time.

Late questions were asked of the defending champions. Still, Cameron Carter-Vickers was on hand to somehow divert Ester Sokler’s effort over the bar after an under-hit clearance from Auston Trusty.

Position	Team	Played MP	Won W	Drawn D	Lost L	For GF	Against GA	Diff GD	Points Pts
1	CelticCeltic	14	13	1	0	41	4	37	40
2	AberdeenAberdeen	15	10	3	2	29	17	12	33
3	RangersRangers	14	9	2	3	24	9	15	29
4	Dundee UtdDundee Utd	14	6	5	3	21	14	7	23

Soon after, the full-time whistle sounded, and Celtic were able to bask in their victory over Aberdeen with their loyal travelling support that braved the elements to help their side over the line.

Significantly, the Bhoys now sit seven points clear of their closest challengers, which is a testament to the work of every player who has played their part this campaign, either as a starter or from the periphery.

With last night’s events set to live long in the memory, Stephen McGinn has identified a Celtic influence he believes still has a big role to play this season under Brendan Rodgers.

Stephen McGinn on James Forrest’s Celtic ‘renaissance’

Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show, McGinn signalled his belief that Celtic veteran James Forrest still has plenty to contribute amid his stylish cameo at Aberdeen last night.

He stated, firstly referencing the possibility of the winger becoming the Bhoys’ all-time most decorated player: “I think it will happen; he’s been huge for Celtic. Has a bit of a renaissance as Brendan Rodgers came back in.

“I think he’s still a key part of the squad. Obviously, Kuhn and Maeda are the starting wingers. Yang, at the odd time, flirts in and out of being a good option.

“James Forrest, you know what you’re getting. He was one of the first substitutes Brendan Rodgers turned to in the recent Champions League game, so he’s someone he really trusts, and I think he’s got a lot more to give over the next 18 months for Celtic.”

James Forrest is still a viable option for Celtic

Although his role in the squad has changed, Forrest is still putting up healthy numbers for Celtic, and the decision to extend his contract until his 35th birthday is sensible for all parties.

Despite rarely starting, the Scotland international has recorded five assists inside 20 appearances this term and is also a handy option to help close out matches with his quality in possession.

Brendan Rodgers needs players he can trust in the fold. Forrest has delivered over the years and is still contributing to the modern-day success fans are witnessing at Celtic.