Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed sympathy for his Rangers counterpart, Philippe Clement, following the Belgian’s fifth consecutive defeat against the Hoops. The 3-0 victory at Parkhead marked a five-point gap between the two teams in the Scottish Premiership.
Rodgers’ comments came after Clement’s Rangers side struggled to cope with the intensity of the Celtic team. Daizen Maeda and Kyogo Furuhashi scored in the first half, while Callum McGregor sealed the win with a fine strike from distance in the 75th minute.
Clement’s Struggles at Rangers
Clement has faced significant challenges since taking over at Rangers, including a disappointing exit from the Champions League qualifying rounds and a tough draw in the Europa League group stages. The team’s relocation to Hampden Park for their early home games due to repairs at Ibrox has also added to the difficulties.
Rodgers’ Empathy for Clement
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Rodgers shared his empathy for Clement’s situation. “You always have to show respect,” he said. “I thought Rangers started well in the game, and I do respect Philippe massively. He is having to work through a difficult challenge with not being at the stadium and having some other issues.”
Rodgers also highlighted the importance of humility and hard work in achieving success. “We go into every game with that humility of knowing that we have to work,” he said. “But to get to this point after a long pre-season, we have started so well and with a real good intensity.”
Celtic’s Strong Start to the Season
The victory over Rangers marked Celtic’s strong start to the season, with the team demonstrating a high level of intensity and mentality. Rodgers acknowledged that there is still room for growth and improvement but expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance so far.
Conclusion
Brendan Rodgers’ comments on Philippe Clement’s struggles at Rangers demonstrate his empathy and respect for his counterpart. While Celtic’s victory over Rangers marked a significant milestone in the season, Rodgers remains focused on the challenges ahead and the need for continued hard work and humility.