The men that mattered against Rosenborg

Every manager likes to put it down to a team performance but within any success there are always certain players that contribute more than others.

The beauty of this Celtic side is that anyone is capable of those match winning performances.

In the second part of last season Scott Brown and Stuart Armstrong could be relied on to turn in eight out of ten performances, against Rosenborg neither player was at their best.

A year ago it was all unravelling for Brendan Rodgers as he came to terms with his squad and tried to slot in a couple of his signings.

Today he knows the strengths and weaknesses of every player as he puts together a stronger squad that now includes Olivier Ntcham, Jonny Hayes, Eboue Kouassi and Kundai Benyu.

Even in adversity the Celtic boss seems able to find a bonus or two. Last week Kristoffer Ajer picked up the man-of-the-match award at home to Rosenborg, last night Nir Bitton put in a passable performance in central defence with hints from Rodgers afterwards of a future libero role.

Friday’s play-off draw will be eagerly anticipated with ferocious but friendly competition within the squad for places- especially in midfield.

Celtic are well capable of reaching the group phase- if Rodgers can get eight or nine players on top form for the group matches some very interesting times are assured.

JOZO SIMUNOVIC

Was the leader that we’ve all been looking for.

During the two matches his form never varied as he partnered Kristoffer Ajer, Erik Sviatchenko and Nir Bitton.

Everything in the air was claimed, he was composed on the ground and well positioned to avoid having to make spectacular last ditch tackles.

This was the defender we were looking for two years ago, welcome Jozo.

KIERAN TIERNEY

The youngest veteran in the business. He genuinely plays like a fan taken from the stands which he is.

He never put a foot wrong at the back and was a very potent threat down the left- and getting the treatment from the home defenders.

He has an awareness way beyond his years and can go on to be one of the best full-backs in the Champions League- assuming we make it.

CALLUM MCGREGOR

Another academy kid that has the gift of time and awareness, it’s getting close to the stage where he is a first pick regardless of who is available.

McGregor has great feet, he is rarely stuck for a pass and can dribble out of most situations.

He understands his role and the instructions from the manager and looks like picking up where he signed off last season.

LEIGH GRIFFITHS

The gamble of leaving the only fit striker on the bench paid off perfectly.

As Rosenborg opened up for the first time over the two legs the former Hibs man was sent off and suddenly Celtic’s play had a focus.

The chances flowed with Griff on the park, getting him 100% match fit for the two play off matches is the priority throughout August.

SCOTT SINCLAIR

Is developing a little habit of close range misses but is easily forgiven with his overall contribution to the side.

When Roseborg pushed he dropped back without any question and played his part through a sticky spell.

A team player who’ll excel against better quality opponents who won’t put their emphasis almost entirely on defending.