The Celtic manager and summer signing have met with the media ahead of their weekend clash.
Brendan Rodgers says he will not be afraid to make a daring lineup decision in Celtic’s Europa League start.
Following their unfortunate exit from the Champions League play-offs against Kairat Almaty, the Premiership champions will compete in UEFA’s second tier league this season. The legendary atmosphere of Serbian heavyweights Red Star Belgrade as their league phase schedule begins is one of the most difficult tests they will face on the road.
Rodgers has important selections to make, particularly at right back. Anthony Ralston has returned to training following an injury suffered against Kairat, and Alistair Johnston is out for the long term, leaving inexperienced youngster Colby Donovan to fill in. He has performed in games against Kilmarnock and Partick Thistle, but this would be a significant step up in terms of testing.
Could Colby Donovan start for Celtic against Red Star Belgrade?
There would be no fear in starting a youngster with only four senior experiences in such an arena, as the manager gave a clear clue when asked whether there was any hesitation: “No, absolutely none at all.” Rodgers commented on the test: “I’ve heard the walk from the dressing room to the stadium is around two minutes, so I’ll have to talk a little faster during halftime!
“But what an opportunity! Just seize it. Last year, there was a lot of learning. We gained confidence in the first year I was back, despite losing a few games. Last year, we demonstrated that we could study while still playing football, and there was no better example than the Allianz Arena.
“It gives us confidence that we can go away to Europe and achieve results.” The team is making new relationships again. I’m definitely seeing the relationships improve. “The team spirit is very strong.”
Brendan Rodgers discusses Celtic vs. Red Star Belgrade
“That is the plan for every team, but we really want to give it our all in this battle. We want to push to achieve well, and we believe we can. We must forget about the Champions League; it is no longer in existence. We need to look forward.
“People have fond memories of Seville from 2003. We have a decent chance of doing well again. I have not looked too far ahead. You have to earn the right and win points, which is what we intend to achieve. They have an experienced team with some really good players. They have won seven out of seven domestic games, so they are in good shape, and I am sure they will want to do well in this competition as well.
Summer signings Benjamin Nygren said after the game: “I think it is looking better and better, and we are improving as a team. I believe we can perform well as a team. We are really confident. We play for Celtic, so we know how good we are. As a child, you dream of being a footballer and playing in front of these supporters. We play at Celtic Park in front of 60,000 people, so we understand how that feels.”
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