GRIFF’S HUMBLE STUMBLE
CELTIC v ABERDEEN
BRENDAN RODGERS has ordered his No.9 to stop telling everyone he’s Celtic’s No.1.
The Parkhead boss demanded Leigh Griffiths curtail a goal salute that was in danger of overlooking the team for a celebration of the self.
The Scotland hitman netted a vital Europa League winner against Rosenborg eight days ago then ran to the main stand and gestured he’s the top man in the side.
Rodgers says he loves his frontman to bits but dislikes immensely the index finger waving for fear it suggests he’s a cut above his team-mates.
Griffiths came to the rescue again in the Betfred Cup quarter-final at St Johnstone in midweek – and this time the signs of solo success were nowhere in sight.
Asked about the ‘No.1’ gesture, Rodgers said: “I spoke to Leigh on that. He doesn’t need to do that – and he didn’t do it the other night.
“He had about five other g.ralston@dailyrecord.co.uk things he did instead. I was watching him. When he scored he pointed to his shirt, he made a heart, he blew a kiss and he gave me a hug, so he got them all in one go.
“I can understand the first time he did it, which was the result of a bit of frustration, with everything – Celtic, Scotland, personal life.
“But no, it’s about humility. It’s not about one person. This team is very much about the collective and he knows that. I understand at times there’s a bit of frustration but I maintain he’s a good boy and when his focus is right on it consistently he will always score goals.
“Leigh’s fine with the chat. It was just in general. You have to remind players now and again but it was nothing serious.
“We have a really good relationship. There is always a bit of tough love in there from time to time. Some players come in and just get on with it and they do their work and you check on them.
“There are others you manage differently but it’s only ever to try to get the best from them and to push the levels of the team.”
Celtic recently tied Griffiths to the club for the next four years and Rodgers is clearly a fan. But he has also reminded him there is so much more he must offer if he is to be his first-choice striker every week.
He added: “It all comes together with Leigh in terms of his fitness. He’s working hard
GARY RALSTON