THERE haven’t been too many positive vibes coming out of Celtic in recent times.
Friday’s media conference descended into talk of mole hunts and suchlike without much talk about this afternoon’s crucial Premiership encounter against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park.
No-one thought to ask Brendan Rodgers about his feelgood factor at the same venue last year, May 15 2024, to be precise.
BALL BHOY…Brendan Rodgers gets the ball quickly back into play at Rugby Park.
That was the evening he sealed his comeback to the Hoops by leading the club to their 54th title with a resounding 5-0 victory over their opponents, then managed by Derek McInnes.
The triumph vindicated the Irishman’s return to the club, a move that had been opposed by many who refused to forgive him for his sudden departure in February 2019 when he quit in haste to take over at Leicester City.
There was a fair bit of acrimony in the air when it was announced on June 19 2023 Rodgers was on his way back to the east end of Glasgow succeed the popular Ange Postecoglou, bound for Spurs.
And the Irishman’s task wasn’t aided with a quickfire League Cup exit at Rugby Park in only his third comeback game.
So, it was somewhat ironic that Rodgers lifted his third crown as Celtic gaffer when he revisited the Ayrshire ground nine months later.
CROWNING GLORY…Brendan Rodgers acknowledges the acclaim of the Celtic fans after the 5-0 win over Kilmarnock to seal the title in his comeback season.
The visitors pulverised their opponents 5-0 with Matt O’Riley (2), Adam Idah, Daizen Maeda and James Forrest getting on the scoresheet.
Amid the celebrations, the Hoops’ third flag in succession after Postecoglou’s double, Rodgers had the opportunity to smile and joke.
Asked about hearing the supporters chanting his name again, he grinned: “It felt really good. I thought they forgot the name!
“But, listen, it was about the team this evening and the support staff…so good.
“There was so much stuff in the first six months it felt a little bit awkward, to be honest.
IT TAKES TWO…Brendan Rodgers and Matt O’Riley who claimed a double in the title success.
“There was a lot of challenge from a management perspective this season, a lot of tedious stuff that took place this season. I’ve never had that before in my career.
“However, my principal objective is to make sure Celtic win. Part of that is the criticism and I understand that, but it’s the mentality of the team that is the most important thing.”
Ten days later, Rodgers was holding the Scottish Cup aloft after Idah’s matchwinner against Philippe Clement’s Ibrox outfit at Hampden.
Happy days.
Let’s hope they return soon, starting today with an emphatic win over dangerous opponents.
ALEX GORDON
JUST CHAMPION…the Celtic players celebrate at Rugby Park on May 15 2024.
* DON’T miss the unbeatable match report and best action images from Kilmarnock v Celtic this afternoon – only in your champion CQN.
