Celtic have stumbled quite a few times in recent weeks as their high-flying early season form has faded away. Yes, they still have a commanding lead in the league, largely thanks to the shortcomings of the Rangers. But there is a clear need for improvement based on some of the performances we have seen lately.
The 3-3 draw away against Dundee FC certainly falls under the 'underwhelming' performance category. Celtic took the lead twice but could not hold on. And then, they had to rely on a late penalty to get a point out of the game after falling behind.
This is not what you expect from a Celtic side. And the defence has been suspect for a little while now.
Not only was there an own goal from Cameron Carter-Vickers on the day but Auston Trusty also did not cover himself in glory for Dundee's third goal. And Rodgers did not mix his words after the game.
Brendan Rodgers calls out Celtic player's weak display
As reported by Glasgow World, while speaking with Sky Sports, when asked about whether the third goal in which Auston Trusty got beaten to a header and if it was ‘too weak’, Rodgers said:
"Yeah. We talked about it inside. When you are a centre-back, you have got to be strong, aggressive. You have got to win your header."
Trusty was signed in the summer from Sheffield United and has had an up and down start to life at Celtic. Rodgers has had to rotate between him and Liam Scales on a few occasions now because neither has done enough to nail down their spot in the team as the starter in the heart of defence alongside Carter-Vickers.
It is very possible that Celtic could need to add a centre-back soon. Stephen Welsh has left on loan this winter and Maik Nawrocki could potentially leave soon as well, as he has also struggled for consistent playing time in Rodgers' side.