TILT ON TRACK
Roberts has also been nowhere near the same levels and Tom Rogic has had problems.
Those three were absolutely magnificent in periods during the Treble and it takes a lot to get back to those heights.
Craig Gordon is about the same, mixing outstanding saves with the loss of some sloppy goals.
Jozo Simunovic continues to have injury problems. Talent is one thing but availability is also crucial and he just can’t stay fit.
Kieran Tierney deserves a special mention because it’s an amazing statistic that he’s played more minutes than any other outfield player in Europe this season. It’s no real shock he shaded a touch before the break.
Callum McGregor hasn’t sparkled and you are left with a couple of them. James Forrest has been sensational. He has added vital goals to some stunning performances and he’s got the look of a Player of the Year.
Vying for that title with him would be Scott Brown who has been another constant with the way he drives the troops.
Perhaps Rodgers himself hasn’t had as good a season but for everything that’s just been said, the achievements are still coming.
Fair enough the unbeaten domestic record was lost but Celtic are in a great position in the title race.
The League Cup is already on the shelf and the Scottish Cup could easily be added.
The objective in Europe was to still be in it after Christmas. And while this was achieved in not overly convincing fashion, still you have to say job done. A lot rests on the Zenit tie in terms of perception and whether this term’s campaign will give fans a bit of confidence for next season in Europe. On paper qualification looks good but the reality is there have been worrying signs over whether Celtic can compete at the top table. Being competitive on the pitch is Rodgers’s toughest challenge. McInnes may have been indulging in a bit of sport when he suggested Celtic’s campaign would be viewed as disappointing if they didn’t win the Treble. But if Rodgers’s stars find their best again it’s everyone else in Scottish football who’ll be left disappointed.
and has added vital goals to stunning performances