Before watching his own side in action on Tuesday night Brendan Rodgers took a look into the future.
Many current managers ignore youth development at their club claiming that they’ll be out the door in three defeats time and can’t concern themselves with further down the line.
Rodgers has taken on the Celtic job in full and is embracing every aspect of the club with an emphasis on finding the next Kieran Tierney.
One of the benefits of playing in the Champions League is getting six Youth League matches for your u-19 side.
Before taking his side to the Etihad Rodgers witnessed Theo Archibald’s spectacular goal against the City u-19 side and is convinced that the entire club is moving in the right direction.
Heerlijke Robben-achtige goal van Celtic-talent Theodore Archibald! Waar de UEFA Youth League wel niet goed voor is! #ZiggoSport #goaaaaal pic.twitter.com/G1RPicMT2w
— Ziggo Sport Totaal (@ZiggoSport) December 6, 2016
“What has been so pleasing was that yesterday (Tuesday) was a good day, from when I watched the development team imposing the style we’re trying to create at Celtic in terms of the identity, they were outstanding.
“They were two up against City and lost 3-2 but it’s great they can go to at club with so much money and talent, and really participate at that level.
“It was great to see them develop and then, for us, going to a team that will still finish towards the top end of the Premier League.”
CELTIC (4-2-3-1) Doohan; Ralston, Kerr, Ajer, Miller; Higgins (McInroy 60), Hill (Henderson 81); Archibald (Crossan 70), Hendry, Johnston; Aitchison.
Not Used: McAdams, Duffy, Welsh, Deans
GOALS Johnston pen, Archibald
