Michael Stewart on what will ‘irk’ Brendan Rodgers at Celtic as he delivers verdict on exciting future

Celtic are Scottish Premiership champions for the third year in a row and Brendan Rodgers’ squad certainly enjoyed celebrating in style last night.

Heading to Kilmarnock needing a point, the Bhoys put in a swashbuckling display, battering their opponents 5-0 courtesy of goals from Adam Idah, Daizen Maeda, James Forrest, and a double from Matt O’Riley.

Following a brilliant party atmosphere on the pitch with their large away following alongside jubilant scenes in the dressing room, Celtic returned back to Parkhead, met by hoards of supporters as fireworks lit up the sky

Despite being not far off midnight, there was a huge turnout in Glasgow’s east end, who took in speeches from James Forrest, Callum McGregor and Rodgers, who addressed his adoring public as he delivered on his promise from the start of the campaign to win the league title.

He stated: “I stood here a year ago and there were about 200 people here. I said I’d see you back here in May. We have a few more than 200 here now, fantastic! When you manage Celtic or play for Celtic or work for Celtic, we actually live for you.”

Now, Michael Stewart has laid out a roadmap for an exciting future at Celtic under the Irishman, though also eluded to something the Hoops manager will be desperate to change come next season.

Michael Stewart on Brendan Rodgers following title success

Speaking on BBC Radio Sportsound, Stewart congratulated ‘elite manager’ Rodgers on his title-winning achievement; meanwhile, he also hit out at critics who doubted his credentials this campaign.

Nevertheless, the former Heart of Midlothian stalwart also claimed Celtic’s European exploits during his time in charge will ‘irk’ Rodgers, claiming it could provide him with extra motivation to make a dent in the new Champions League format come 2024/25.

Stewart stated: “I don’t know how anyone could disagree. Brendan Rodgers is a top class elite manager. There is no doubt about that. He’s done it everywhere he’s been. You’ve got to remember how close he was to winning the Premier League with Liverpool, if not for a slip from Steven Gerrard.

“He came to Celtic and took them to a different level. He won trophies with Leicester. He’s a top-drawer manager.

“The one thing that will probably irk him is the fact he’s not been able to have an impact on Europe with Celtic. That’s the next challenge for him and for the club to elevate them to that stage and have a real go at it. Next season, does the change in format help or hinder them? We don’t know.

“This season, there were a lot of games when big moments didn’t go their way. The margins were very fine. If they get better quality into their team with Brendan Rodgers in charge, I don’t see why they shouldn’t be looking to make a better go of it next season.”

Celtic have an exciting summer to look ahead to after lifting title

Once the Scottish Cup final is over next weekend, Celtic fans can look forward to an exciting summer that will hopefully yield squad improvements as the club prepare to comPete on all fronts.

This campaign hasn’t come without its difficulties at times; however, Rodgers, his players and the support can give themselves a considerable pat on the back, with everyone playing their part in bursting through the finish line.

Enjoy the bragging rights and take pride in another successful season for the club. Celtic are champions once again!