Rodgers calls in the kids

After the exertions at Tynecastle Brendan Rodgers will give a few of his regulars a night off for the visit of Kilmarnock.

The opening games of the season against Linfield seem a lifetime ago but with just two more matches after the game against Stevie Clarke’s side history awaits the bhoys of 2018.

There has been a core of half a dozen players that have been at the heart of this season’s successes with Rodgers strongly tempted to give them the night off.

In attack the Celtic boss will have a big dilemma with Odsonne Edouard and Leigh Griffiths both out of contention.

With Moussa Dembele’s problems with hamstring injuries over the season it’s highly unlikely that he’ll be risked with the former Fulham striker probably wrapped in cotton wool until the Hampden clash with Motherwell.

Although Rodgers has plenty of experienced alternatives to his big hitters he has always said that he wants to drive through as many players as possible from the club Academy.

Kieran Tierney, Callum McGregor and James Forrest are three outstanding examples to follow, against Killie some of the emerging talents are likely to get the chance to stake their claim.

CALVIN MILLER

Chances have been few and far between for the born again left-back.

As if having Kieran Tierney in front of you isn’t enough of an obstacle Callum McGregor has developed into a more than able alternative.

Miller picked up a man-of-the-match award at Rugby Park at the start of the season, he’ll probably be looking to get out on loan to a Premiership side.

EWAN HENDERSON

Has stepped up from the u-17 side to make an impact in the Development League side.

He has all the mannerisms of his older brother Liam but plays in a more advanced role.

Throughout his career he has always been compared to his older brother, he is used to that and sees it as a challenge rather than being placed in the shadows.

MIKEY JOHNSTON

Has battled back from sustaining a torn thigh muscle in January to feature in half a dozen Development League matches.

Injuries to Patrick Roberts and Jonny Hayes could have provided him with a real chance this season but he has the raw ability to make up for that missed opportunity.

Next season he’ll have the added competition of Lewis Morgan but everyone who has watched Johnston in action knows he is the real deal with a big chance.

KERR MCINROY

Has had an outstanding season in the Development League after breaking through the previous season as a 16-year-old.

He has all the attributes to play in central midfield, much like another Fifer in that area with the added bonus that he is a real goal threat.

Kerr was an unused substitute in the 0-0 draw with St Johnstone in February, if he gets a chance he is bound to make an impression.