It’s been a long journey for Brendan Rodgers at Celtic this season. While most fans backed his appointment once it was announced last summer, he still had a lot to prove.
There was certainly a lack of unity, to begin with. Some supporters were sceptical about his return and that was compounded by a poor transfer window.
When the injuries racked up and performances suffered, scrutiny was taken to new heights for the manager. The contrast was stark compared to his incredible 2016/17 debut.
It all came full circle last night at Rugby Park when a stunning 5-0 win over Kilmarnock delivered another league title for the Bhoys.
During that 90 minutes, it was notable that the hardcore Celtic support were singing the famous Brendan Rodgers song from his first spell. They’ve taken him back in a big way and he couldn’t be more delighted.
Brendan Rodgers enjoys love from the Celtic support
Speaking after the Bhoys became champions again, Rodgers said when asked about the fan chants [Celtic Way]: “It felt really good. I thought they had forgotten my name! It was about the team and the support staff.
“There was so much in the first six months. It felt a bit awkward for everyone. There were lots of challenges from a management perspective, and tedious stuff that took place. I’ve not had that before in my career.
“The challenge was making sure the voice of the team was right no matter the negativity. We stayed on point, kept our focus and prepared knowing the players would get to a level and intensity to which my teams normally play and as if by magic that’s how it ended up. That spirit in the team was key. You have to have that.”
Rodgers deserves huge credit
The manager has done a superb job of keeping the Celtic train on the tracks this season. At times it looked like the title race was spinning away from the Bhoys but he stayed true to his methods and belief in these players.
Along the way, his team began to inspire the Celtic support again. The team have been excellent during this run-in, picking up strong results against Rangers and getting the job done elsewhere. The fans have been massive for them in return.
Now they’ve shed the baggage of Rodgers’ return, this team can kick on to new heights. There’s a cup final and a big summer ahead, before the excitement of another European journey later this year.