Brendan Rodgers has sent a Celtic warning to his stars - but who’s in most need of heeding that call?
In reference to Odin Thiago Holm and Bosun Lawal, the boss has left in no doubt what is required to play for the Premiership champions. The stars have been told it’s either shape up or ship out of Lennoxtown in a blunt transfer warning.
He said: “They need to be a much higher level. If you’re going to play for Celtic, you have to be. Odin needs to do more. There’s something there, though, absolutely.
“And that’s why we persevere, and that’s why we stay with it, because he has talent, like Bosun Lawal, and that’s why we want to give them the opportunity, so I can see them in pre-season. But, it’s just running more. You have to run. Without the ball, you’ve got to run, you’ve got to be bright, you’ve got to be in good positions to press the game, then to get the ball and take the ball.
“You see Francis Turley when he comes into the game the other night. It’s a kid I’ve only seen for a couple of days, and if he can progress and get his body right, then he’ll be a proper player. It’s a kid that moves well.
“You see how he moves, how he takes the ball, makes runs, he’s bright, he gets in the box, gets a finish. He just needs to get more power and energy, but that’s football, that’s movement, that’s taking the ball, that’s being clever.
“So I think the two boys (Holm and Lawal) that you mentioned have talent. But I want more. A lot more. Talent not just enough. You can play in teams, but not in our team.”
While two stars are mentioned, who else could fall into the description of a Celtic player Rodgers provides? We have a look at 11 stars who perhaps fit the bill after the boss’ address
1. Odin Thiago Holm
We'll start with one of the two in the firing line. The Norwegian youngster was a bit-part player in his first season at Celtic following his move from Vålerenga. Has impressed in pre-season but must do more in the eyes of his gaffer. Photo: Ross MacDonald - SNS Group
2. Stephen Welsh
Someone Rodgers has not been scared in turning to, the defender has made a few errors in friendly matches. Not a big deal but the boss will be taking notes. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
3. Hyunjun Yang
The South Korean winger showed glimpses of his potential last season but Celtic fans will hope there is more to come. That consistency will be needed to win them round - and his manager. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
4. Mikey Johnston
Had a successful spell at West Brom last season, scoring seven times in 18 appearances. Has looked sharp in the friendlies so far but clearly must need to work on an element of his game if Rodgers was ok to send him out on loan. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group