Brendan Rodgers has been reacting to John Lundstram’s red card during Celtic’s victory over Rangers last weekend in his pre-match press conference ahead of his side taking on Kilmarnock tomorrow.
The Bhoys took a major step towards Scottish Premiership title glory on the day; however, their path was made a little smoother after the flashpoint that saw Rangers reduced to ten men in first-half stoppage time following Lundstram’s lunge on Alistair Johnston.
Willie Collum made the call after being summoned to the VAR monitor for a second look at the challenge, which later led to Johnston being replaced by Anthony Ralston in the second half of proceedings.
Speaking before the Bhoys travel to Ayrshire with the prospect of a potential title party in touching distance, Rodgers has offered his assessment of events at the weekend that led the Bhoys to hold a one-man advantage.
Brendan Rodgers on Lundstram’s dismissal at Parkhead
When asked about what he thought of Lundstram’s red card during the first half, Rodgers didn’t seem overly angry at the force of his challenge.
He stated [Celtic FC]: “Listen, I think in the modern game, everything gets analysed now, doesn’t it? John’s tackle was just slightly mistimed, he catches him high.
“Unfortunately, for him, in the modern game where there’s VAR and everything else, it sees you get sent off.”
Rodgers later added that Johnston would be available to play tomorrow despite his fitness troubles last Saturday.
The 51-year-old said: “Obviously, if that happens in an iconic game, then of course, it will be out there, but thankfully he (Johnston) wasn’t badly injured, he struggled in the game after it and had to come off, but he’s recovered well and he’s available for tomorrow.”
Alistair Johnston being available is excellent news for Celtic
With Celtic seeking to wrap up the title, news that Johnston has recovered to feature at Rugby Park is an excellent development for everyone involved.
The Canada international was a constant source of joy at both ends of the field last weekend, creating five chances and winning seven duels, fighting tooth and nail for his side against their most bitter rival.
Toppling Kilmarnock won’t be an easy task amid the reality that Derek McInnes has achieved two wins and a draw against Celtic this season; nevertheless, Johnston’s availability elevates his side’s chances of coming away with three points.
Knowing what is at stake, the away crowd will roar their team on in the hope of seeing Rodgers’ men deliver one more time when it matters to secure the Scottish Premiership crown.