‘WE TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED,’ CELTIC BOSS

BRENDAN RODGERS is adamant he wants Celtic to win the Premiership crown due to their own efforts.

The champions moved to within just three points of their sixth successive title with the 2-1 triumph over Dundee at Dens Park yesterday.

Aberdeen are due to play Paul Hartley’s side on the Friday night after the international break before Celtic play Hearts at Tynecastle on the Sunday afternoon.

A win for Dundee on Tayside would hand the championship to the Hoops without a ball being kicked in anger in the capital.

Rodgers insisted: “I always said when I came in we weren’t defending a title, we were looking to win it.

“The ideal scenario is you win it yourself, but I’ll take Dundee winning.

“We never expected to win it as early as we can. We’ve done our best in every single game and an immense amount of credit must be given to the players for their focus and mentality.

“We never take it for granted or have been complacent. We have to win it and earn it.

“We have a couple of weeks and I hope they all come back from international duty fine.

“It was our intention to win every trophy, that was our idea, so this is our next one. Can we win this and as quick as we can?”

The Irishman added: “We still have nine games to go and it has been a long season for the players, but we’re really motivated to finish the best way we can. 

“It’s always nice. If you can finish strong and then it sets you up to begin the following season well.”