Celtic return tomorrow against Heart of Midlothian and Brendan Rodgers will be looking forward to locking horns with former colleague Neil Critchley under the lights at Tynecastle.
Despite the pair having worked together at Liverpool, there will be no love lost in the capital as the Bhoys aim to maintain their Scottish Premiership unbeaten streak.
The travelling band make their way into this one off the back of ten wins and a draw on league duty. In contrast, Hearts sit one point above rivals Hibernian after a poor start to the campaign under Steven Naismith.
Nevertheless, Celtic know their challenge tomorrow is about shifting into gear. Post-international break matches can throw you off the scent if you’re not careful, and Tynecastle is hardly a place you can afford to be complacent.
That being said, Brendan Rodgers will carry plenty of confidence his side can get the job done tomorrow, though he is aware of the challenges his side will face in front of a capacity crowd.
Brendan Rodgers on Celtic’s trip to Tynecastle
Speaking to Celtic TV, Rodgers is under no illusions that Celtic will need to be at their best to claim three points against Hearts, while also eluded to potential changes in the squad over the coming weeks to juggle a hectic fixture schedule.
He explained: “It’s always been a tough game there. I think my last evening game there was actually with Liverpool in the Europa League.
Every other game has been an early kick-off. I look forward to us getting together again. It’s a great game to get started. It’s always a tough game at Tynecastle and we’ll be ready and prepared for it.
It’s always a wee bit fragmented over the international period, but thus far, they are all back healthy and we hope that stays the case. Because we have such a long run from now until March, with no winter break, I gave the players and staff the chance to reset and come out of the intensity of the battle as such and we reconvene now for an exciting couple of months.
“We are going to get the chance to see a lot of the players play, because we’ll need that to keep the energy and freshness in the ream. I’m really comfortable with the squad we have and that togetherness of mindset that we have cultivated is really strong. It allows me to look forward to this next period of games, starting at Hearts.”
Celtic primed for fiery battle with Hearts
Celtic couldn’t have gone into their clash at Hearts in a better place, but Rodgers will make sure there is no let-up from his squad as they look to position themselves for another Scottish Premiership title.
Unfortunately, only a small collection of visiting supporters will be permitted to enter Tynecastle, though they will push their side every step of the way on to another victory.
For those without tickets, Hearts vs Celtic will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football, with build-up commencing at 7 pm.
Whether you are in the stands or watching from the comfort of your own home or enjoying an outing at the pub, hopefully the reigning champions can pull through on a night where high drama is expected.
