Freedom of expression for Ntcham

CELTIC midfielder Olivier Ntcham is enjoying the freedom of expression under Brendan Rodgers.

The 22-year-old Frenchman joined the Hoops from Manchester City last summer on a four-year deal for a reported fee of £4.5 million after a twoyear loan spell at Genoa.

He has since established himself as a regular i n the Parkhead engine-room and, ahead of the William Hill Scottish Cup Final against Motherwell on Saturday, Ntcham spoke of his improvement under his Northern Irish boss.

He said: “As a player, I am developing a lot. I am more aggressive, more concentrated. He (Rodgers) is very important. He gave me the chance to express myself on the pitch.”

Ntcham, however, felt the disappointment of being left on the bench by Rodgers for the 2-0 Betfred Cup Final win over Motherwell in November. But he is keen to make amends this weekend at Hampden Park to finish the season on a high.

“It is always difficult to play against Motherwell because they are strong, they run a lot, have a good team spirit and they fight for every ball, so it is going to be a tough game,” Ntcham said.