BRENDAN Rodgers tonight admitted that Celtic’s latest Scottish title success is one of the sweetest of his managerial career because of the “tedious stuff” and “negativity” he has had to endure off the park this season.
Rodgers’ men romped to a resounding 5-0 win over fourth-placed Kilmarnock at Rugby Park this evening to move six points clear of their nearest challengers Rangers at the top of the cinch Premiership table with a game to play.
The Parkhead club’s fans in the Chadwick Stand chanted the Northern Irishman’s name as they celebrated their heroes’ third consecutive league triumph following the final whistle.
Many supporters were unhappy when the 51-year-old, who had left for Leicester City before the end of the 2018/19 season, replaced Ange Postecoglou last June and it took time for him to win them round.
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Rodgers, whose men can complete a double if they beat their city rivals again in the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup final at Hampden on Saturday week, was hugely satisfied with how his men came through it all to prevail in some style.
“The performance was amazing,” he said. “I’m so proud of how they’ve dealt with the pressure and how they stepped it up against a Kilmarnock team coached so well and who are so well organised.
READ MORE: Derek McInnes gets referee apology for giving Celtic 'a helping hand'
Rodgers added: “It was about the team and the support staff. There was so much in the first six months. It felt a bit awkward for everyone. There were lots of challenges from a management perspective, tedious stuff that took place. I’ve not had that before in my career.
“The challenge was the voice of the team was right no matter the negativity. We stay on point, keep our focus and preparation knowing the players would get to a level and intensity to which my teams normally play and as if by magic that’s how its ended up, That spirit in the team was key. You have to have that.”
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