We’ll put an arm around Leigh and help him get through his troubles

RODGERS BACKS GRIFFITHS AFTER STRIKER TAKES TIME OUT

BRENDAN RODGERS insists Celtic will back Leigh Griffiths to the hilt after the troubled striker was given an extended break from football to sort out ongoing personal issues.

The Hoops boss yesterday dropped a bombshell ahead of tonight’s crunch Europa League showdown with Red Bull Salzburg.

Griffiths penned a new four year deal earlier this season despite the manager being aware of issues in the background but he vowed the club will do everything they can to help rebuild his life on and on the pitch.

Celtic are down to just one striker in Odsonne Edouard (right) but Rodgers insisted the forward’s health was more important.

He said: “He is a football talent and I have always said at big clubs where there is competition you need three strikers.

“I always thought he would be one of those hence the reason why he got a new deal.

“It’s knowing the individual and the person. What you have here is a vulnerable guy but who is a special talent.

“It would have been very easy to say, ‘Oh, you’re a pain in the backside, just move on,’ but you know he is a good guy who just needs help.

“He has done amazing to play to the level and score some of the goals he has, but he has reached the point where it is a struggle for him.

“Yes, it leaves us short but that is irrelevant. This is our values. It is always the player and the person’s welfare. That is what is most important. “Leigh is coming out of football for a little while. “He needs professional help with issues which have been ongoing with him for quite some time.

“He is coming out of that football environment and as a club we will look to do everything we can to help with that.”

Kieran Tierney returns tonight after missing the 5-1 win over Kilmarnock at the weekend.

Dedryck Boyata is still out with a hamstring injury and Kristoffer Ajer and Eboue Kouassi remain out, although Nir Bitton is back training following knee trouble.