Brendan Rodgers verdict on Celtis’s new goalkeeper search

Brendan Rodgers has revealed that a new custodian is NOT on his radar ahead of the January transfer window opening. In a few weeks, Celtic’s manager will have the opportunity to address what he recently described as a “glaring lack of quality” in several key positions.

The fact that the Irishman sees no need to bolster the goalkeeping department is perplexing, as evidenced by today’s performance in Perth. Joe Hart has unquestionably been a great addition to the club over the last few years, helping us reclaim our Scottish Premiership crown when he arrived in the summer transfer window of 2021 under Ange Postecoglou.

The former Manchester City custodian has clearly passed his prime, and there is no doubt that his decline will only worsen as time passes. Throughout his time in Scotland, he has received some criticism from Celtic fans, some of it deserved and some of it not. But there’s no hiding or avoiding the issue any longer, as it’s clear that as his powers fade, more and more errors are creeping into his game.

Having said that, he’s a great character to have around, and if at all possible, Joe should be retained as we move forward under Brendan Rodgers. Whether it’s to go straight into coaching or to be the experienced goalie who assists the new and younger recruits in settling into the role with shared duties with the Englishman, albeit in a reduced capacity to what he’s doing now.

Following his second goal conceded from a corner in a row in the Scottish Premiership following the Motherwell game, these two incidents are not isolated and should serve as a warning sign that the ‘keeper is beginning to decline.

However, the Irishman has now stated that he does not see a new stopper as one of the more pressing issues as we approach the halfway point of the season.

According to the Daily Record, he said, “It’s not one for now. I want to improve the squad over my time here, and particularly over these next couple of windows.” It’s certainly perplexing, and it’s a testament to how poorly recruitment has been recently that the manager sees the funds as being directed to other areas of the team that are devoid of quality.

The boss also discussed Mikey Johnston’s talent, but tempered his praise with an explanation of why he has been used so sparingly, even when fit. The Republic of Ireland winger has performed admirably for his country when called up, and many have wondered why he isn’t getting a start for his club, despite the fact that several key players are out injured.

“He was outstanding, really bright,” Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers said. He’s one of the best players I’ve seen at the club in one-v-one. How bright he is, how clever he is. If he can just take on board the team concept and when we don’t have the ball, he’s one you can put in.”

In other news, Plastic pitches could be banned in the SPFL Premiership next season.