Brendan Rodgers criticises Celtic player for giving ball away

Celtic came into the game against Hibernian on the back of a confidence-boosting performance against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. That was not on display at Easter Road though, as the Hoops put in an uninspiring display and could only manage a goalless draw against Hibernian.

The result allowed the Rangers to cut the lead at the top down to five points. While that is still significant, seven was naturally a more comfortable gap.

There were no outstanding displays on the part of Celtic at Easter Road. Their squad depth also cam under heavy criticism as it was quite clear that Brendan Rodgers did not have substitutes who could come in and make an impact.

Mikey Johnston was making his first appearance of the season as he was given a decent bit of time off the bench to make a difference. Unfortunately, he was not able to do that and also faced some criticism on the part of Rodgers for giving the ball away.

Rodgers criticises Celtic player for giving ball away

As reported by Sky Sports (via TBR Football), Rodgers said:

"“Well we needed and wanted Mikey [Johnston] to be able to be good in one v one situations and at times he showed that.“Other times he gave the ball away needlessly.”"

It was not a great display on the part of Johnston, to be honest. But at the same time, that was to be expected, considering the small amount of football that he has played in recent times.

Players like Johnston need a run of games in order to develop a rhythm and perform at their best. That is unlikely to come at Celtic, especially when Liel Abada returns to fitness in the future.

It remains to be seen if Johnston is given more opportunities in the upcoming games. In the long-term, it does feel like his future lies away from Parkhead. Never say never though. Just look at where Liam Scales was in the pecking order a couple of months back.