Celtic Manager Rodgers Addresses Criticism After Tense Draw at Dens Park

GLASGOW, Scotland — Celtic FC manager Brendan Rodgers addressed mounting criticism following a dramatic 3-3 draw against Dundee at Dens Park on Tuesday night. The match, which saw Celtic concede three goals for the third time in a month, ended with a late penalty converted by Arne Engels to salvage a point.

Rodgers, speaking at a pre-match media conference at Lennoxtown, acknowledged the team’s recent struggles but emphasized the physical and mental toll of a grueling schedule. “We have to accept the criticism, whether we like it or not,” Rodgers said. “When you draw a game or lose a game, it’ll sting. But for us, it’s all part of being at a big club.”

The manager highlighted the team’s demanding fixture list, with seven games in 20 days, as a contributing factor to their recent dip in form. “I think there’s also respect in that there comes a point in a season where any team, no matter how good a season you’re having, you’ll hit a little bit of a wall,” Rodgers explained. “I felt that probably on Tuesday, on that seventh game in 20 days, was maybe that point.”

Despite the criticism, Rodgers remained optimistic about Celtic’s upcoming matches, including three home games across different competitions. “The players have done really, really well,” he said. “We now have a little point where we have that extra day of recovery going into Kilmarnock and then we don’t play until Wednesday. That allows us to virtually reset again.”

Rodgers also reflected on the importance of the Scottish Cup, a competition Celtic won last season. “We’re not defending it – we have to win it,” he said. “Our focus is very much on looking to get it off to a good start in the competition, one that this club is synonymous with.”

The manager praised Kilmarnock’s Derek McInnes, describing him as a “really good manager” whose teams are “well-organised and well-motivated.” Celtic will face Kilmarnock in their next match, with Rodgers emphasizing the need for readiness in cup competitions.

Celtic’s recent form has seen them win seven, draw two, and lose one of their last 10 games across 34 days. Despite the challenges, Rodgers remains confident in his team’s ability to bounce back and continue their pursuit of a ninth treble.