Unleashing the Celtic Defense: An Urgent Call for Reinforcements

Mark Wilson, a former Celtic defender, emphasizes the importance of strengthening the defense for Brendan Rodgers due to concerns about injury to key players. During Sunday's 3-1 victory over Aberdeen, Cameron Carter-Vickers, who had already missed the end of the previous season due to knee surgery, was substituted due to a hamstring injury.

Fellow defender Carl Starfelt recently departed the club to sign a four-year contract with Celta Vigo. Although Brendan Rodgers remains optimistic about the quick return of Carter-Vickers, Wilson is urging the club to acquire suitable replacements.

"He's the standout defender at the club, a true leader," he reported to We News.

"We witnessed firsthand the impact when he was temporarily removed from the team last season, which greatly affected the defense. Thus, it's a topic of concern in that regard.

I don't believe he performed well at the Aberdeen goal, but I'm unsure if it was due to a potential injury that required the substitution.

Stephen Welsh stepped in and appeared dependable alongside Maik Nawrocki. They collaborated effectively, but it remains uncertain if they have what it takes to reach the next level.

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Reo Hatate had to leave the game midway due to injury in Celtic's victory against Aberdeen. Upon the conclusion of Sunday's match at Pittodrie, the manager expressed his desire to make a new signing in the upcoming week. Reports have connected Elfsborg defender Gustaf Lagerbielke with a potential transfer to Glasgow.

Reo Hatate, the midfielder, had to leave the field due to injury after taking David Turnbull's place. However, they secured a crucial win against Barry Robson's team with goals from Liel Abada, Kyogo Furuhashi, and Matt O'Riley. Wilson, who had a five-season stint at Parkhead, thinks that Rodgers will be pleased with Celtic's start in their newest title defense.

"When you have to face an away match at Pittodrie in the second game of the season, it will always be a challenging task, especially for a new manager," he remarked.

"I believe Celtic managed to handle the match well. It is evident that they haven't reached their utmost brilliance, which is widely recognized."

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Celtic's Kyogo Furuhashi found the back of the net, bringing the score to 2-1 in favor of Celtic against Aberdeen. Although there are some subtle changes in their playing style this season compared to the previous one, their attacking prowess remains impressive.

The player's understanding of Brendan Rogers' intentions will require some time, but it seems that he has built upon the solid foundation established by Ange Postecoglou here. Rogers has incorporated elements such as the tempo, inverted fullbacks, and midfield overload, while also adding his own unique touch, as all exceptional managers do.

Celtic will benefit significantly from Kyogo's adaptability in bigger Champions League matches as he seamlessly transitions into a deeper role, shifting inside when O'Riley ventures past the striker or Maeda breaks through the defense. This adjustment perfectly complements Kyogo's style of play and will undoubtedly enhance Celtic's performance.

Rodgers praises top-class attitude of players

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers spoke to We after their 3-1 win over Aberdeen:

We had a fantastic victory. Barry has his team perfectly organized, making it challenging to go against their man-to-man defense and direct approach. Although I was disappointed by the goal we conceded from a stationary goal-kick, coming to this place is always tough, so I'm satisfied. The players faced the challenge head-on, resulting in a remarkable win for us.

The players' attitude is unquestionable, and they display top-class performance. It's a positive sign when we begin strongly and end on a high note. The substitutions made a significant impact and greatly helped us in sealing the victory.

"There is a multitude of areas that require improvement, yet what is admirable about the squad is their eagerness to learn and enhance their skills. With each passing day, they will undoubtedly progress and achieve higher levels of performance."

Regarding the acquisition of defender Carl Starfelt, the Celtic manager further commented:

"Very close, I think in the next week we'll get that done."

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