Bain could get chance to stake claim for semi-final start

BRENDAN RODGERS has revealed he may rest comeback goalkeeper Craig Gordon for today’s Premiership fixture at Hamilton — a move that could hand Scott Bain a chance to stake his claim for a Scottish Cup semi-final place. Gordon kept a clean sheet on his 200th Celtic appearance against Dundee in midweek, his first outing since suffering a knee injury against Hibs on January 27.

Rodgers was delighted by Gordon’s performance but admits he is wary of risking the 35-year-old’s knee on the artificial surface at the Superseal Stadium.

Loan signing Bain (left) impressed on his debut at Ibrox last month and could now be given a chance to stake his claim for the Hampden showdown against Rangers next week.

‘It was brilliant to see Craig back the other night, a real presence in goal and a talent,’ said Rodgers. ‘It is something we will look at for Hamilton.

‘He’s coming back from a knee injury. Does he play on the astro?

‘We have a number of players we have to think about — (Jozo) Simunovic, (Leigh) Griffiths and (Kieran) Tierney. It is not the ideal game the week before a semi-final.’

While the likes of Odsonne Edouard and Patrick Roberts will join Bain in contention for a start today, Rodgers admits it may be next season before the Celtic supporters see the best of Charly Musonda.

The midfielder, 21, was long pursued by Rodgers but has been used sparingly since his loan transfer from Chelsea in January.

‘Charly has 18 months here, and there is a whole settling-in process,’ added Rodgers. ‘It is clear he is a talent but it’s just about time.

‘It’s a case of finding what his best position will be.’

If Musonda’s lack of action can be put down to age, the inability of Marvin Compper to make any impact on Rodgers’ team has been harder to explain.

The German defender was brought in for £1million from RB Leipzig in the winter window but picked up an injury in Dubai and has featured just once in a Scottish Cup tie against Morton last month.

‘Marvin brings a lot of experience but after his injury others came in and did well,’ said Rodgers. ‘He respects that — Kris Ajer has come in and done great.

‘That’s how football works and for me, irrespective of age or status.’