With Celtic gearing up for a League Cup semi-final against Aberdeen at Hampden Park on Saturday, manager Brendan Rodgers has welcomed the challenge posed by Aberdeen’s strong form this season.
With both teams unbeaten in domestic competition, the clash between the Premiership’s top two sides is not only a battle for a spot in the final but also a chance to end one’s unbeaten streak.
Rodgers praised the fierce competition from Jimmy Thelin’s side, highlighting its importance in driving Celtic to new heights.
Speaking via Celtic TV, he said: “I think it’s brilliant (to have serious competition from Aberdeen) it’s great. Whether it’s football, or business, any competition is healthy and it’s what makes you better.
“You will always drive your own standards, but competition is really healthy and helps to keep you moving forward.
“Aberdeen are up there fighting, and everyone would expect Rangers to be up there at some point, and the big clubs from Edinburgh will feel like they want to be challenging as well.
“I think the more competitive the league is then that can improve you.”
This weekend’s matchup marks a critical opportunity for Celtic to reclaim a place in the League Cup final, a position they missed out on last season.
Rodgers has confirmed that captain Callum McGregor, who missed the last two games, is fit and ready to return, bringing invaluable experience and leadership to the squad. Key stars Nicolas Kuhn and Adam Idah are also back in training, adding depth to Celtic’s squad as they look to overcome Aberdeen and maintain Rodgers’ 100% record at the national stadium.
The manager faces a selection headache in the middle of the pitch, though. Bernardo and McCowan started midweek, and with Callum McGregor back in the fold and Reo Hatate pushing for a start, there are some tough choices to make.
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