The Celtic truth hurts for Mikey Johnston but here's why Brendan Rodgers' stinging comments could backfire - Chris Sutton

There has been some refreshing honesty from Brendan Rodgers in recent weeks over important things like recruitment and performances.

This new-look no bull Brendan has been a breath of fresh air with no beating around the bush. He has pulled no punches with his players, telling the likes of Maik Nawrocki and Gustaf Lagerbielke they need to do more in training to trouble his starting XI and admitting he booted some backsides in Perth last week.

You want to hear managers telling it how it is. But at the same time I’ve got to say I find the public digging out of Mikey Johnston a bit odd. Rodgers was critical of the winger after Wednesday’s 4-1 win against Hibs, saying he needed to do more on the pitch. It’s fair enough thinking it but actually saying it in public is another matter. That kind of thing can go either way.

It might give Johnston motivation – but it could also heap more pressure on a player who already seems to have a lot on his shoulders. It is a gamble because Celtic and Rodgers need Johnston right now They just don’t have enough options in the wide areas during this busy festive spell to not have him on the pitch.

Luis Palma has done pretty well but it’s clear Yang is not up to it yet. He looked like someone who had won a raffle to get a game in the first half last weekend and while he may have talent he still looks a good bit away from having what it takes at this level.

Marco Tilio clearly hasn’t done enough to force his way in either. With Daizen Maeda and Liel Abada out, that only leaves James Forrest, so Johnston will be required to play his part.

It might be Rodgers is just trying to light a fire under the Ireland cap. I’ve seen it before and it can work. Proving a manager wrong can be a big driving