My Celtic Pride

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IT was a memorable moment for Brendan Rodgers as he became a championship-winning manager at the club he has always supported on Sunday at Tyne castle. But amid the jubilation at the final whistle his mind turned towards to those who never managed to achieve what he had just done, specifically Celtic legend Tommy Burns, a man who had a huge influence on him throughout his coaching career.

“You can imagine the privilege I have standing on the sidelines being a Celtic manager, so to get that title which I know that great guys like Tommy Burns were never able to do is something for these guys,” he told the Celtic View in an exclusive interview. “I was a big admirer of Tommy as a young coach, so to do it as a supporter is a really proud day for me.

“I am extremely proud and privileged. I have known of all the great managers here of the past and to win a league title here with Celtic. I have grown up with the club – and to be responsible to give the supporters that joy is really humbling for me.”

The extraordinary way in which Celtic have swept to their sixth successive title would have found favour with all of the great names who have managed the club. Undefeated in 37 domestic matches since the start of the season, the Hoops have won 28 times and drawn twice in their 30 league games. This astonishing level of consistency saw them wrap up the championship with eight games to spare.

“It’s a hallmark of the players’ professionalism, the pride they have taken in their work, not just in games but on a daily basis,” said the Hoops boss. “This has provided the platform for them to go and win and win well. It’s been an incredible achievement for them.