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Young Talent Arne Engels Faces Expectations at Celtic
Rodgers has expressed his enthusiasm for Arne Engels, highlighting the player’s potential as a significant factor behind his signing. “Arne is a fantastic young player,” he stated, emphasizing that the decision to bring him to Celtic was based on a belief in his ability to grow and enhance his game within the club’s environment. “He’s come here to a big club to improve his game. I’ve got absolutely no doubt he will do that,” Rodgers added.
Rodgers also reflected on the challenges young players often encounter as they adapt to higher levels of competition. He pointed out that fans and critics should recognize that development takes time. “Some will hit the ground running and be fine and adapt, perfect. But not everyone is like that – and especially a young player,” he remarked. This insight reflects a broader understanding of player progression, particularly for those entering intense environments like Celtic, which is consistently under pressure to perform.
He noted a pattern in how promising talents sometimes face undue scrutiny. “I know it won’t be the case, but I would hope that people will learn their lesson,” he commented, referring to instances where young players have been prematurely judged. Rodgers stressed the importance of patience and support from fans as Engels navigates his career trajectory at Celtic.
Looking ahead, Rodgers is optimistic about Engels’ development within the team. “I’m really pleased since he’s come in, because I know the future for him. He will improve, he will develop and get better,” he affirmed. This kind of encouragement is vital, as it not only boosts the player’s confidence but also reinforces a supportive team culture.
The Pressure of Playing at Celtic
As the defending champions and current leaders of the Scottish Premiership, the expectations placed on Celtic players are substantial. “The scrutiny is on you when you come to Celtic,” Rodgers noted ahead of the upcoming match against Ross County. This reality can create a challenging atmosphere for newcomers trying to establish themselves.
Rodgers acknowledged the inherent pressure associated with playing at Celtic, explaining that players often contend with intense criticism. “It’s always the pressure when you come to play up here,” he elaborated. He recognizes that while some criticism may be warranted, it often does not consider the complexities of player development.
In these high-pressure scenarios, Rodgers reminds his players that the ultimate platform to respond to critics is on the pitch. “You do have your chance on the pitch to show what you can do,” he concluded, underscoring the importance of opportunity and performance in the face of scrutiny.
Source
www.bbc.com