Brendan Rodgers Celtic press conference in full as boss coy on Luis Palma 'interest' amid Liam Scales vote of confidence

Brendan Rodgers was keen not to name names when quizzed on Celtic's reported interest in Honduras winger Luis Palma.

The Celtic boss is looking for his side to respond after a shock Viaplay Cup exit to Kilmarnock that saw the Irishman's hopes of another domestic Treble fail at the first hurdle. St Johnstone are the visitors to Celtic Park as the Hoops look to continue their 100 per cent league start. It emerged on Wednesday night that Palma was said to be the subject of a £3.5million bid from the Scottish champions as Rodgers looks to bolster his options.

But the coy Irishman reckons it's the nature of the game for Celtic to be linked with many names throughout the window, but Rodgers is perhaps looking to the far-more pressing matter of the injury crisis sweeping the heart of his defence with Cameron Carter-Vickers, Maik Nawrocki and Stephen Welsh all confirmed to be out for multiple weeks. That could have implications for Aberdeen who want to sign Liam Scales, with Rodgers keen to stress his countryman WILL play a role soon.

On Palma, he said: "I think we need to improve the squad but there'll be no confirmation of names. There's been lots of names that have been floated about. As soon as we sign anyone we'll let you know."

On Scales, he added: "I really like Liam, I've said that before. There's been a partnership here with the guys, and with Carl leaving and Cameron being injured for a lot of pre-season now means that there's change there. With the numbers down of course, Liam will play a part."

You can watch Brendan Rodgers' press conference in full in the player above.