Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has stood by his recent decision to field young talent Daniel Kelly in a match, despite facing criticism from prominent pundit Chris Sutton.
Sutton, a former Bhoys striker, had questioned Rodgers’ choice to play the 18-year-old Kelly in a game against Hearts at Tynecastle, suggesting that it might not be the right setting for the emerging prospect.
In response to the backlash, Rodgers defended his selection, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young players from the club’s academy. He expressed his belief that it is crucial to provide opportunities for talented individuals like Kelly to prove themselves on the field and gain valuable experience.
While not directly addressing Sutton’s remarks, Rodgers acknowledged the scrutiny surrounding his decision to include Kelly in the squad, with Sutton being a prominent voice in the criticism.
During a press conference, Rodgers reiterated his commitment to developing young players and integrating them into the first team to secure the club’s future success. He emphasized the need to strike a balance between fielding experienced players and giving promising talents like Kelly a chance to shine.
Although Kelly has only made a few appearances for Celtic so far, Rodgers is confident in his potential to become a valuable asset in the squad and contribute effectively in the long term. He stressed the importance of nurturing young talents like Kelly to strengthen the team and prepare them for high-stakes matches.
While Sutton’s concerns about squad depth are valid, Rodgers believes that investing in young players like Kelly is essential for the club’s progression and long-term planning. He emphasized that providing playing time to emerging talents is more beneficial than retaining players like David Turnbull without a clear pathway for their development within the team.
In conclusion, Rodgers remains committed to fostering young talent at Celtic and believes that players like Kelly will play a crucial role in the club’s success in the future.
