Brendan Rodgers explains why he dropped in-form Celtic player

Celtic were not at their best this weekend. But they did get the job done. Goals from summer signings, Arne Engels and Luke McCowan, were enough to seal a 2-0 win against Hearts to maintain the Hoops' perfect start to the season. They have now won five straight in the league without coceding a single goal.

One player who was not part of the starting XI against Heart was Paulo Bernardo. He was replaced by Engels in Rodgers' team.

Of course, Engels would end up opening his account for Celtic by converting from the spot against Hearts. But at the same time, one cannot ignore the form that Bernardo has been in recent times. He was excellent against the Rangers earlier this month and then scored during the international break as well.

Rodgers has now shed some light on his decision to drop Bernardo to the bench on the day. As reported by The Celtic Way (via 67 Hail Hail), the manager said:

"I have to prepare the team for the season. It’s no good having a strong squad and then not using the players. I like to make minimal changes, but I will still make changes.

“I felt that it was important for Engels to come in and get that feeling playing in the team, trying to understand some of the patterns, because then we can look at and analyse the game with him for areas he can be better in.

“I want to build a team here that has power, speed and unpredictability. He certainly gives us that on a European level.

“He’s come in and played in the top 5 leagues in Europe and played very well in that. That’s a player that we need, and we’re very happy that he’s chosen to come here.

“I wanted to get him in – Paulo’s been brilliant, so I’m happy he’s here. There are other players waiting in the wings too to get game time. It’s such a long season, and they’ll get that."

Brendan Rodgers explains why he dropped in-form Celtic player

It is going to be a long season, it always is when you play for Celtic. Not only are the Hoops expected to challenge for all three trophies but they also have more games to play in the Champions League this time around, thanks to the new format.

That means that Celtic will need to rotate their squad of players. They cannot risk playing someone way too much. That can have a negative impact and lead to injury issues.

Of course, someone with Rodgers' experience will know that very well. And the player would most probably understand as well.

There is a reason why clubs around Europe are focusing on adding depth to their squads in recent years. It is no longer about having the best XI OR 15.