Brendan Rodgers has told Arne Engels doubters they should learn their lesson from previous players they were too quick to judge. Celtic broke their transfer record to sign the Belgian midfielder from Augsburg for £11m in the summer.
He was widely viewed as a replacement for Matt ORiley following his move to Brighton but, with three goals and six assists in 16 appearances, many critics believe he has not lived up to expectations so far.
Can Celtic be stopped? Will Rangers build on EL win? Pressure on Hibs and Hearts?Maeda magic secures draw for Celtic after Carter-Vickers calamityGet Sky Sports or stream with NOWScottish Premiership table | Fixtures | ResultsThe 21-year-old was replaced by Paulo Bernardo after an hour of Wednesdays 1-1 Champions League draw with Club Brugge, with some calling for the Portuguese midfielder to start ahead of him in upcoming games.
But Rodgers was quick to point out both Bernardo and Nicolas Kuhn received similar criticism before finding their form with the Scottish champions. The most recent example of that would be Paulo. It was exactly the same, if I remember back, highlighting him in his performances this time last year, the Celtic boss said ahead of Saturdays Premiership match against Ross County.
Now, he cant be cheered on loud enough when he enters on to the pitch. Thats called development, its called patience, its called time. Arne is a fantastic young player, otherwise we wouldnt have brought him here.
He doesnt set the price. Hes come here to a big club to improve his game and Ive got absolutely no doubt he will do that. I know it wont be the case, but I would hope that people will learn their lesson.
The same people that were writing off Paulo and Nicolas Kuhn, itll be Arne Engels, itll be someone else. Some will hit the ground running and be fine and adapt perfectly but not everyone is like that, especially a young player.
Ive been really pleased since hes come in because I know the future for him. He will improve, he will develop and get better. Weve seen it so many times. Rodgers also expressed his delight at right-back Alistair Johnstons nomination for the FIFA World Best XI in recognition of his performances for both Celtic and Canada in 2024.
Its absolutely brilliant for him, he added. It recognises the consistency that hes played internationally and domestically, and shows how hes rising as a football player. Its a great honour for him to be recognised on that list.
