Why the US tour is more than just a brand exercise for Celtic

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Celtic are enjoying a fun introduction to their pre-season tour of the United States and will be gearing up to face DC United this weekend.

The Bhoys landed in Washington earlier this week and have already hit the training field, putting in the hard yards ahead of the new season.

Finnish goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo has also joined up with his new teammates after completing a £1 million switch to the Scottish Premiership holders from Aston Villa, sprinkling some extra excitement into proceedings.

Visiting famous landmarks is always a handy port of call in a new environment, and Celtic were present at the White House yesterday, enjoying an inside view of Joe Biden’s official residence.

Either way, this trip isn’t just a brand exercise for the club. Brendan Rodgers will be determined to squeeze every ounce of productivity from the journey possible.

Celtic’s fringe men and the chance to step up in the US

Friendly matches are largely based around fitness; however, Celtic are judged on winning and performing, so expect three competitive line-ups against DC United, Manchester City and Chelsea on their pre-season tour.

Nevertheless, this may also be the last quantifiable opportunity for fringe men to convince Rodgers they can force themselves into the picture this season, given there is less room for manoeuvre in competitive matches.

Bosun Lawal and Odin Thiago Holm have both been two talked about figures in the Bhoys’ first two pre-season matches against Ayr United and Queens Park, playing a prominent role in midfield.

Despite this, Rodgers laid down the law to the duo, claiming they needed to do more off the ball to earn a place in his thoughts. Can either convince the manager they deserve to be in his plans? Celtic supporters will find out soon enough.

On the other hand, other peripheral men, such as Hyeokkyu Kwon, Mikey Johnston and Yuki Kobayashi, could come to the fore, that is, before mentioning the nine academy graduates who have travelled to the States.

In the early hours of Sunday morning, Celtic fans may find out an indication or two of who could make a break for regular involvement on the competitive front this season. There are places up for grabs, but the manager will have the final say.