Brendan Rodgers has been in this position before at Celtic — under pressure, scrutinised, and facing questions about form and direction.
The Hoops’ disappointing defeat to Dundee has left them five points behind Hearts at the top of the Premiership table, sparking criticism from fans and pundits alike. While much of the frustration has been directed at the Celtic board, attention is beginning to shift toward Rodgers himself — especially after his recent “Honda Civic” comment, which many interpreted as a dig at the club’s transfer backing.
Given Celtic’s financial muscle compared to most of their domestic rivals, the remark hasn’t gone down well among supporters. And with Rodgers now in the latter stages of his current contract, football pundit Peter Martin has questioned both his attitude and his future at Parkhead.
Speaking on PLZ Soccer, Martin suggested that Rodgers’ post-match comments were a calculated move, designed to send a message south of the border.
“Spin it however you like — that was Brendan having a go, in typical fashion, about not being given the keys to the Ferrari to play the football he wants,” Martin said. “It’s the classic interview that lets everyone in the English Premier League know: ‘I’m here, I’m available, I’m ready for the next job.’
“If the poor football continues, the fans will start to turn on him, and I think the board will sack him — and truthfully, I think that would suit him.”
Rodgers, who insists he’s open to staying under the right circumstances, has reportedly maintained a strong relationship with major shareholder Dermot Desmond. But the exact conditions for his long-term commitment remain unclear.
Should results continue to falter, speculation around his future will only intensify. Yet, despite the current tension, Rodgers remains a manager in demand, with links to multiple Premier League roles this season.
For now, Celtic fans will be hoping that an upturn in results can put those conversations to rest — at least for the time being.
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