Brendan Rodgers provides an explanation for his decision to withdraw Jota from the match against St Mirren, citing the forward adjustments that were implemented.

Brendan Rodgers provides an explanation for his decision to withdraw Jota from the match against St Mirren, citing the forward adjustments that were implemented. Brendan Rodgers has provided an explanation for Jota’s absence from Celtic’s match against St. Mirren this evening.

The winger returned to Celtic in January after scarcely playing for Rennes this season, appearing in only nine matches for the Ligue 1 team. Jota was thrust into the spotlight with Celtic and shed tears of joy after scoring in his re-debut against Motherwell, despite having been introduced from the substitute.

Rodgers comprehends the toll that commencing and maintaining a consistent presence for the Scottish Premiership’s dominant team can impose on his match fitness. Team MP W D L GD Pts 1 Celtic 28 23 3 2 67 72 2 Rangers 28 18 5 5 34 59 3 Aberdeen 28 12 5 11 -8 41 4 Hibernian 28 10 10 8 3 40 5 Dundee United 28 11 7 10 0 40 6 Heart of Midlothian 28 10

Brendan Rodgers discloses the rationale for Celtic’s decision to rest Jota. This is the reason why Jota has been designated for the substitutes in anticipation of the match at the SMiSA Stadium in Paisley. The manager has chosen to reorganise his squad and reinstate Adam Idah as the team’s captain.

Rodgers elaborated on his decision-making process and disclosed that the Portuguese star had experienced “fatigue” in the lead-up to this match. Rodgers stated on BBC Sportsound prior to the match, “Jota has played a significant amount of football during this period, particularly considering that he has not played as much for a long time.”

Therefore, I have consistently maintained that his return would serve as a means of enhancing his status. There is no need to risk any injury with him, as he appears to be slightly fatigued, especially given the numerous games that remain to be played.

“Adam provides physicality and brings Daizen to the side of the pitch, where he performs equally well. Jota and the other players are available to enter the game if necessary.”

The omission of Jota enables Daizen Maeda to resume his natural position. Daizen Maeda is back on the left-flank, which is still a seriously strong position for the Japanese and, perhaps, his most natural area, despite his extraordinary goals return this term.