Stu’s debt to Rodgers over Scots capcall-up

STUART ARMSTRONG has praised Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers for ‘revitalising’ his career as he now looks to earn his first Scotland cap.

On Sunday, Armstrong was again a leading light by bagging his team’s only goal in the 1-1 draw with Rangers.

However, his influence in the team ran further than that 35th-minute strike, with Celtic losing their way when he was forced off after 73 minutes.

The former Dundee United man looks a different player to the one Rodgers inherited from Ronny Deila.

And Armstrong paid tribute to the Northern Irishman for helping his game so much that he was rewarded with a Scotland call earlier this week.

“Since he [Rodgers] came in, we had the initial conversation at the start of the season and how he wanted me to go about my business at Celtic,” said the 24-year-old.

“That really spurred me on and gave me a great platform and opportunity to work my way into the side and play in my favoured position. I owe him a lot for reigniting my career at Celtic.

“I had been named in the Scotland squad a couple of times, first at Dundee United and then at the start of my first full season at Celtic, but I got an injury so that was a bit of a disappointing time.

“It was a bit up and down after that but since the gaffer has come in he has revitalised my career.

“He moved me into the middle and I have built on that in training, working very hard in training and contributing in games with goals and assists.

“It’s been a good season of progress, so it’s been very nice to be rewarded with a Scotland call-up.”

Armstrong explained how it was a special moment to be called up to face Canada and Slovenia.

He told the Celtic View: “I’m very happy. It’s a proud moment for me and my family. My brother and my dad and my step-mum all got in touch, saying they were delighted and proud.”