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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Aidan Macdonald

Brendan Rodgers insists Mikey Johnston 'needs to do more' to become Celtic starter

Brendan Rodgers insists Mikey Johnston "needs to do more" if he wants to be a regular starter for Celtic.

The winger started his first game for the Parkhead side in over 22 months as the Scottish champions ran out 4-1 winners against Nick Montgomery's men thanks to a double from Oh Hyeon-gyu, a header from Matt O'Riley and Luis Palma converting from the penalty spot.

And Rodgers feels that the Republic of Ireland international needs to make more of an impact.

Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland, he said: "Mikey needs to do more, that is the reality. 

"He is a big talent, and he comes into the game. However, if he is starting a game then we need more from him.

"That is something we will hopefully see over time. He is not young, he is 24 and at some point you need to grab the bull by the horns and be aggressive.

"Sometimes it can be easier coming off the bench as you come in and show your qualities, but I think if any player wants to be starter then they need to show that personality.

"He has been really good in training and earned the start so hopefully he can show more of his qualities."

Rodgers had stated after the recent 3-1 win against St Johnstone that he was the "angriest he had ever been" during his half-time team talk.

But he was much happier with his side's performance against the Edinburgh club.

"It was a really good team performance on what could have been a really tricky night for us," he continued.

"Hibs are good team and they play good football, and you have to be organised, so they do not cut through you.

"We pressed well during the game and when we did that, we scored some good goals, so I am delighted with the performance.

"If you are going to celebrate at the end of the season then it is about that hunger that you play with all the time."

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