Brendan Rodgers won’t be racing into the transfer market to replace Emilio Izaguirre.
The Honduran ended a seven year stint at Celtic to take up a lucrative offer in Saudi Arabia leaving Kieran Tierney as the only left-back in the top team squad.
A year ago Rodgers signed Cristian Gamboa to fill a gap at right-back but is ready to place his trust in the club’s academy to fill in for Izaguirre.
Rodgers’ hands on style of management involves every aspect of the club with completing the loop between academy and first team an important aspect of the job for the Irishman.
“I had a look at it, Emilio was offered the chance of a lifetime financially for three years,” the Celtic boss told The Sun.
“He’s been a great servant to the club and if I thought I couldn’t cover, it couldn’t happen but I look within and I have a high regard for young Tony Ralston, who can play right and left back.
“Calvin Miller is progressing well, he looks a stronger player this season. I like the look of him.
Rodgers could give Kristoffer Ajer his first start tonight to emphasise his commitment to youth.
The Celtic boss could have played it safe during the summer and brought in a middle of the road centre half and held off Izaguirre’s transfer until after the Champions League qualifiers were completed.
It’s unfortunate that a couple of injuries have occurred on the eve of Champions League qualifiers, two months further into the season wouldn’t have been such a problem but as ever Rodgers has plans for every possibility.
