BRENDAN RODGERS has revealed fans’ favourite Kris Commons has almost certainly played his last game for Celtic.
The former Scotland international midfielder hasn’t featured since the Irishman took over from Ronny Deila in the summer.
And Rodgers admitted he told the 33-year-old playmaker from the start that his chances of playing in his line-up were close to zero.
But the Irishman was full of praise for the player’s attitude in training and says when he does move on, he’ll be ready to perform immediately.
Rodgers said: “I spoke to Kris in the first week I was here. He knew clearly what my plan was for the team going forward. He’s a good guy, I like him. But it’s been tough. I’ve brought in players who play in a different way to how he’s played before.
“There’s no doubting his qualities . He trains hard every day, he’s doing his best to fight and work.
“But everyone in the squad has known where they stand since the first week.
“All I’ve ever said is: ‘If you’re not playing or you’re not in the plans, just respect the work.’ And I’ve never had an issue with any of them.
“They are improving to be the best they can be and, if it’s not here, they’re getting a level of work that’ll help them get games if and when they leave.”
One player who has worked his way back into the reckoning with Rodgers is midfielder Stuart Armstrong.
The ex-Dundee United man made a big impact in last weekend’s 1-0 Betfred League Cup semi-final win over Sevco Rangers when he replaced the toiling Nir Bitton and a superb display – and a goal – in the 4-0 success over Ross County in midweek made certain he was first pick for the 1-0 triumph over Aberdeen at Pittodrie yesterday.
Rodgers said: “He’s playing at a real good level of confidence and there’s much more to come.
“When I was studying Celtic before I came in, he was the outstanding player. His profile suited how I like a team to play in terms of mobility, speed, power, good technique.
“When I arrived I found he’d played a lot from the left. In the time we’ve worked together I’ve slotted him into positions, like in front of the midfield and just behind.
“Now I can see clearly that his best position is in the middle of the field.”
