‘EXCEPTIONAL,’ RODGERS’ FIRST IMPRESSION

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BRENDAN RODGERS admitted he was delighted with Celtic’s first impression as they overcame DC United 4-0 in Washington in the early hours of the morning.

The Hoops gaffer watched skipper-for-the-day Matt O’Riley claim a first-half double before wide Bhoys Mikey Johnston and James Forrest added two more after the break.

Rodgers emphasised the importance to his players of their first touch on a dodgy playing surface.

His team responded with some sweeping and accurate passing right from the off that saw their MLS opponents swept aside as the champions prepared for a new season on the domestic and European fronts.

CELTIC VIEW…Brendan Rodgers delivers his aftermatch thoughts after a winning start to their USA tour.

The Irishman smiled afterwards at a good day’s work as thousands of Celtic fans turned out to cheer on their favourites in the American capital.

Rodgers said: “I told the players that this is a game to show how technically good you are. It’s a wee bit like when we played Kilmarnock on the astroturf pitch when we won the title, there are no excuses.

“We are here to increase our physicality and improve tactically, but, technically, let’s get your first touch – because the first touch is the characteristic of the top player.

“And, on this occasion, it was really, really impressive.”

The Hoops gaffer, speaking to Celtic TV, continued: “I thought we pressed the game so well. All the guys from the first whistle were in contention.

“They were making the last step to win the ball. That sped up our offensive play.

“Some of our football on a really difficult surface was exceptional. In the moments we had to defend we did that.

“Our physicality was really good at this stage and where we are at.”

HEAD BHOY…Brendan Rodgers declares himself happy. Images courtesy Celtic TV.

Rodgers added: “Across the board, we had some young players coming in and they did really well.

“It’s been a hard week for them as they have put in a lot of work in the heat.

“To come here and finish off the week like we did and score the goals that we did and they were really good goals and we had a host of other chances, as well.

“We bedded some of the youngsters into the structure who had done well in the training and they got their reward playing the games.

“It is another step for us.”

Next up is a Battle of Britain clash with Pep Guardiola’s English champions Manchester City in North Carolina on Wednesday before ending the tour against Chelsea on Saturday.

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