Manager: We know we'll have to play well to reach semi-final

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Celtic F.C.

·19. September 2025

Manager: We know we'll have to play well to reach semi-final

Celtic return to action this Sunday as Brendan Rodgers’ men continue their defence of the League Cup with a trip to Firhill to face Partick Thistle (K.O 3.30pm).

That match comes on the back of last Sunday’s league victory over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, where Kelechi Iheanacho dispatched a 96th-minute penalty to secure all three points, sparking brilliant celebrations amongst the away support.

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As Celtic manager, Brendan Rodgers has picked up the League Cup on four occasions, with the most recent triumph in the competition coming last season, when Celtic defeated Rangers at Hampden Park to win the trophy for the 22nd time in the club’s history.

Speaking to the media at Lennoxtown today, Brendan said that he is determined to win the trophy again as he and his side prepare for this weekend’s quarter-final.

“It’s a competition we’ve enjoyed throughout the years.” the manager said. “In my time here I’ve always had a focus to do well in this competition.

“We’re the holders of the trophy, so we want to make sure we not only do well in it but win it, and that’s the plan.

‘The League Cup gives you a real focus and purpose at the beginning of the season.’

“Sunday is an opportunity to get to Hampden and we want to get there, but we respect Partick and Mark (Wilson) and his team.

“We know we have to go there and play well to get to the semi-final.”

Last Sunday’s match against Kilmarnock also saw 19-year old defender, Colby Donovan make his first start for Celtic.

The right-back played the full 90-plus minutes at Rugby Park, and Brendan Rodgers says that he has been impressed by the young player’s attitude and development so far.

Brendan added: “I’ve really liked Colby since I came in, seeing him and seeing his development.

“There’s absolutely no doubt that he has the personality to play for Celtic, I can see in how he trains every day.

“Sunday wasn’t an easy game to step in to with the conditions and the astroturf pitch, but he grew in to the game and by the end he’s the one who is down the side of the pitch and making the cross.

“I’m really pleased for him. There’s a long way to go for him but he’s shown potential.”