Brendan Rodgers admits 'you have to earn the right' against SPFL clubs as he opened up in the aftermath of defeat at Kilmarnock.
Celtic were sent spinning out of the League Cup by the Ayrshire outfit, the first time Rodgers had lost a cup game across his two spells at Parkhead.
A goal from Marley Watkins was the difference after a close game, although the visitors were perhaps unfortunate to be denied a late penalty.
But reflecting on the game, Rodgers admitted his side will need to be aware of the need to win the battle before playing their football.
He said: "You have to earn the right in every single game. That's what I sensed up here in my first spell and it's no different now. Celtic are a big scalp for many clubs and you have to go out knowing the team you're playing against will be giving that extra five or ten per cent in the game and St Johnstone will be no different and we have to be ready for that.
🗣️ “I’m really happy to be home. We’ve had a few games away and Celtic Park on our first day was great.” The boss looks ahead to the return to #cinchPrem action this weekend in our exclusive #CelticTV interview Watch in FULL here ⤵️https://t.co/rlmg3c4c4f#CELSTJ | @CelticFC pic.twitter.com/GIiEGmyeBW
— Celtic TV (@CelticTV) August 22, 2023
"I'm really happy to be at home. We've had a few games away and Celtic Park on our first day was great. so it'll be great to be back there in front of our own supporters and push on to get three points."
