Brendan Rodgers was on the naughty list last season as Celtic’s’ season threatened to implode.
But the Hoops boss redeemed himself in the eyes of the green-and-white faithful after delivering a Double in his first campaign back in Glasgow. Celts fans have been spoiled with success over the years, watching their heroes dominate Scottish football with an astonishing 41 trophy lifts since the turn of the millennium.
However, the Parkhead support will be dreaming of even more glory this season. For a bit of fun, Record Sport has come up with five things every punter would love to find under their Christmas tree this year.
Make mine a Treble
Christmas came early for Celtic fans at Hampden as Rodgers’ men wrestled back the League Cup from Ibrox – edging one trophy in front of Rangers as Scotland’s most successful club. But there’s still another two pieces of silverware they’ll be hoping to unwrap come May as last season’s Double winners aim to go one better by completing a SIXTH clean sweep in just eight years, with the Scottish Cup and Premiership still to be claimed.
Champions League progression
Top of everyone’s wish list will be a place in the knockout stages. The Hoops are in a commanding position to qualify for the play-offs with nine points from six and another victory against rock bottom Young Boys will secure their place in the next phase. It’s unlikely, but a final day victory away at Aston Villa could even see them sneak into the top eight. A bit of Santa’s magic dust might be required for that one.
Kieran Tierney returns
The return of the prodigal son would rank as the greatest present of all for the green-and-white faithful. Tierney is poised to leave Arsenal in the summer after the Gunners opted against triggering a 12-month contract extension clause. And Celts are understood to be keen on bringing the academy graduate – who they sold for £25million in 2019 – back home for nothing. A loan deal could even be struck when the transfer window opens next month.
New Brendan Rodgers contract
It’s the season of giving and tying down all-conquering Rodgers on an extended deal would certainly spread the Christmas spirit. The Northern Irishman is midway through his second spell in charge and with just 18 months left on his contract, and the Three Wise Men at Parkhead in Dermot Desmond, Peter Lawwell and Michael Nicholson should be doing all they can to keep the managerial great for even longer.
More derby joy
Nothing beats the festive cheer of beating your bitter rivals. Celtic have had the bragging rights in recent years and Rodgers will be determined to deliver another win for the Parkhead club to celebrate at Ibrox on January 2. The reigning champions are already well clear of Philippe Clement’s men in the title race and a victory on Govan would all but guarantee four-in-a-row and a 55th league crown.