Brendan Rodgers was delighted to see Jonny Hayes get his first goal for Celtic.
The former Aberdeen winger opened his hoops account with the second goal of the day in a 3-0 win over Derek McInnes’ side,
Hayes has struggled to find a way into Rodgers’ side and has even missed out on getting a place on the bench for a number of matches.
The Celtic boss has known the Dubliner since he signed him for Reading and understands the special pressure that comes with playing for Celtic.
Rodgers told the Daily Record: “A young Irish man, I know what it means to be from Ireland and support (Celtic) but to play for Celtic and get your first goal, especially against your old club… It is a really special day for him.
“He is just settling into the club, but the last couple of months have really seen him make a step forward, be that bit more direct in training.
“Sometimes when you come into a club you are a little bit safe and be everyone’s friend but now he is really aggressive in his game, with and without the ball. I am delighted for him.”
Mikael Lustig opened the scoring for Celtic with a deflected first half shot before Olivier Ntcham wrapped the game up with Celtic’s third goal of the day.
The 3-0 win lifted Celtic eight pints clear of Aberdeen and in with a chance of having a double digit lead going into the winter break.
Celtic complete 2017 against Dundee and Sevco while Aberdeen are at home to Partick Thistle and Hearts.
