After Celtics defeated Livingston 3-0, John Kennedy heard the supporters yelling “bring on the Rangers” and declared he was equally ready for the big game the next week.
At Almondvale, the Hoops easily defeated Livi due to goals from Paulo Bernardo, Matt O’Riley, and an own goal by Jamie Brandon. One of the easiest victories of the year for the Celts helped them gain confidence ahead of the powderkeg derby at Ibrox the following weekend, which may significantly impact the outcome of the championship race.
As they get ready for their competitors next week, supporters in the away section this afternoon were obviously in a positive mood, and Kennedy was happy to hear from the gamblers.
“Did I hear the final chants? Yes, it’s good, too. They take advantage of the players “He said to Sportsound. “We also told the players that the fans expect us to play a specific way, and we constantly strive to fulfill their wishes. You can see the confidence the players get and the environment they create when we’re playing at our best and scoring goals.
“We’re in a good place and we just need to keep that going.”
With Brendan Rodgers suspended, Kennedy was the only person on the touchline and in the media. His assistant talked about getting the boss back at Ibrox.
He also discussed the likelihood that Cameron, Reo Hatate, and captain Callum McGregor will return.
“Will Callum return the following week? With luck, with luck. Since he hasn’t been taught yet but is getting better, we’ll watch how he does throughout the course of the week and see what it brings. For now, we’ll take each day as it comes.
“But now that Cameron is back and getting 90 minutes in his legs, along with Reo, everything is coming together very well.
“Brendan I’m fairly certain he’ll be present because, as far as I can tell, this is the first occasion in his career that he’s done it, and I doubt he’ll have relished taking the stand today.”