Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has stated that he wants to add more firepower to his squad in the January transfer window. Rodgers’ comments came after Celtic’s 4-0 win over St Johnstone, which moved them 14 points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
Rodgers mentioned that he likes to add goals to his teams in January, citing the examples of Nicolas Kuhn and Adam Idah, who were signed last January and made significant contributions to the team. He expressed his desire to bring in players who can provide a fresh threat and improve the squad’s overall quality.
The Celtic manager also addressed speculation surrounding defender Cameron Carter-Vickers, who has been linked with a move to Bayer Leverkusen. Rodgers stated that he hasn’t seen anything about the speculation and that his focus is on developing the players he has and improving the squad. He emphasized that his priority is to keep the players he has, rather than letting them go.
Celtic’s win over St Johnstone was their 16th league victory of the season, and Rodgers praised his team’s intensity and work rate throughout the match. He highlighted the importance of maintaining their high standards, particularly in the upcoming Old Firm derby against Rangers at Ibrox on Thursday.
Rodgers believes that Celtic are on the cusp of an historic season if they can continue their relentless form. He praised his team’s performance and statistics in 2024, stating that it will be a historic season in terms of what they’ve achieved statistically. Rodgers’ team has been dominant in the Scottish Premiership, with 52 goals scored in 18 league games.
St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari admitted that his team had no answer to Celtic’s firepower and intensity, stating that they needed a perfect day and for Celtic to play below par, which didn’t happen. Valakari praised Celtic’s quality, acknowledging that they are a strong team with a lot of depth.
The win over St Johnstone was a testament to Celtic’s strength and depth, with players like Kyogo Furuhashi, Nicolas Kuhn, and Daizen Maeda all contributing to the team’s success. Rodgers will be looking to maintain this level of performance in the upcoming matches, including the highly anticipated Old Firm derby.
In preparation for the derby, Rodgers emphasized the importance of focus and concentration. He stated that his team needs to be prepared to compete and fight for every ball, highlighting the intensity and physicality of the Old Firm derby.
The Celtic manager also acknowledged the significance of the match, stating that it’s a special game for the players, the staff, and the fans. He expressed his excitement for the challenge ahead, emphasizing that his team is ready to face whatever Rangers throws at them.
Overall, Celtic’s dominant performance against St Johnstone has set them up nicely for the upcoming Old Firm derby. With Rodgers’ team in top form, they will be looking to extend their lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership and make a statement against their arch-rivals.