Celtic are edging ever closer to another Scottish Premiership title, and with just seven league games remaining, excitement is building among the club’s supporters. Brendan Rodgers’ side have established a commanding 13-point lead over Rangers, putting them in a position of strength as the season enters its final stretch. While the prospect of lifting yet another league trophy looms large, Rodgers is determined to ensure that his team remains fully focused on the task at hand.
This weekend, the Hoops travel to McDiarmid Park to face St. Johnstone, a side that is fighting for its top-flight survival. Six days later, they will head to Rugby Park to take on Kilmarnock, a fixture that has traditionally posed difficulties for the Glasgow giants. Although many fans have already started calculating when Celtic could mathematically seal the title, Rodgers is refusing to get drawn into the speculation. While he acknowledges the anticipation surrounding the moment Celtic will be officially crowned champions, his priority remains ensuring that his players stay focused and professional in the final weeks of the season.
When asked about the growing excitement among supporters, Rodgers admitted he understood why they were looking ahead to potential title celebrations. However, he made it clear that the focus within the squad remains on the immediate challenge. Speaking to Celtic TV, he said:
**“Yes, absolutely. That’s the role of a supporter—they want to see when their team can succeed. It’s been a long, intense season, so of course they look ahead.
“But for us, there’s still work to do. Our focus is on the next game: St. Johnstone away. They’re fighting for survival, and it would be foolish to discount their spirit. Their new manager is trying to implement his ideas, and the pitch will be a challenge. But we have to play our game and bring home the points.”**
Rodgers’ approach is one of caution, and understandably so. He knows from experience that football has a way of throwing up unexpected twists, and he will be keen to guard against any potential slip-ups. St. Johnstone, under the guidance of Simo Valakari, will be fighting tooth and nail for every point as they attempt to preserve their Premiership status. McDiarmid Park has posed challenges for Celtic in the past, and with the added pressure of a relegation battle, St. Johnstone will be desperate to make life difficult for the visitors.
Beyond that, the trip to Rugby Park also presents its own set of obstacles. Kilmarnock have been a stubborn opponent this season, and their artificial surface has historically caused problems for visiting teams. Celtic have enjoyed success there in the past, but Rodgers will be well aware of the importance of approaching the fixture with the right mindset. Any complacency at this stage of the campaign could prove costly, and he will be demanding full concentration from his squad.
The Final Push for the Title
Despite the challenges that lie ahead, Celtic’s form and quality suggest that it is only a matter of time before they secure the title. The Hoops have been the most consistent team in the division this season, displaying resilience and professionalism throughout the campaign. Injuries and European disappointments have tested their squad depth, but key players such as Adam Idah, Paulo Bernardo, and Reo Hatate have stepped up when it has mattered most. The ability to grind out results, even in difficult circumstances, has been a hallmark of Celtic’s season, and it is this mentality that Rodgers will be looking to maintain in the coming weeks.
For supporters, the anticipation is reaching fever pitch. Many are already planning potential title celebrations, speculating whether Celtic could mathematically seal the league before their next clash with Rangers. Should results go their way, there is even a possibility that the Hoops could be confirmed as champions before the final rounds of fixtures, allowing for an extended period of celebration.
However, as much as fans are looking ahead to the title-winning moment, Rodgers’ message remains one of discipline and professionalism. He has been in this position before and knows that nothing is guaranteed until the points are secured. There is no room for complacency, and while the excitement among the supporters is completely understandable, the players must continue to approach each game with the same intensity and focus that has brought them to this position.
Rodgers’ Influence and Celtic’s Winning Mentality
Since returning to Celtic last summer, Rodgers has successfully guided the team through the ups and downs of the season, reaffirming his reputation as a manager who knows how to deliver success. Under his leadership, the Hoops have remained composed and consistent, navigating the challenges of the domestic campaign with a clear sense of purpose. His ability to keep the squad grounded and focused has been a key factor in their dominance of the league, and he will expect nothing less than full concentration as they enter the final phase of the season.
Rodgers understands the importance of maintaining momentum right up until the final whistle of the campaign. He has experienced title races before, and while Celtic’s lead appears comfortable, he knows that there can be no room for any drop in standards. The aim is not just to win the league but to finish the season on a high, ensuring that the team carries confidence and momentum into the next campaign.
The Role of the Supporters
Celtic fans have played a crucial role in driving the team forward throughout the season, and their unwavering support has been a key factor in the club’s success. The atmosphere at Celtic Park has been electric, and the backing from the stands has provided an extra level of motivation for the players. As the title edges closer, that support will be even more important, helping to push the team over the line.
Rodgers himself has acknowledged the passion and enthusiasm of the supporters, understanding why they are so eager to see the team crowned champions as soon as possible. However, he has also reminded them that patience and focus are still required. While the celebrations may be just around the corner, the players must remain fully committed to finishing the job professionally.
Looking Ahead
With only a handful of games remaining, Celtic’s path to the title is clear. A win against St. Johnstone would bring them one step closer to their ultimate goal, while a strong performance against Kilmarnock would further solidify their dominance at the top of the table. If results continue to go their way, it may not be long before the Hoops are lifting the Premiership trophy once again.
For now, though, Rodgers’ message is clear—the work is not yet finished. The team must remain focused, take each game as it comes, and ensure that they cross the finishing line with the same determination and professionalism that has defined their season.
The title may be within touching distance, but in football, nothing is won until the final whistle blows. As the Hoops embark on the final stretch of their journey, Rodgers will ensure that his squad stays grounded, focused, and ready to complete the job in style. The celebrations will come soon enough, but first, there are points to be won and battles to be fought. The journey to another Scottish Premiership crown is almost complete, and Celtic are determined to finish it in the best possible way.