Celtic v Hearts – Everything said at Brendan Rodgers Media Conference

Q: Do you also think there’s a safety issue as well? It’s not just respect. The players have to set an example?

Brendan Rodgers: “Yeah, and in the main, in these games I’ve always been involved in, they do. That’s the reality of it. And listen, it works both ways. There’s a lot that comes into players as well, from the stands to coaches, managers and players. But I think we all know there’s a line that we shouldn’t cross. And like I said, it is a very emotive game. It’s an amazing fixture and I thought it was great to have the fans back in. I think that gave it that extra bit as well. But I just think there are lines. We can’t antagonise because in this fixture in particular, that can lead to an issue.’

Q: Just a word on your UEFA charge, did that come as a surprise to you?

Brendan Rodgers: “Yeah, well to be fair, I’d only read about it. I think it’s one of these ones. I wasn’t aware that we were doing anything different to what we normally do. But sometimes coming out at half-time, it’s a wee bit stricter than what you’d have normally at home. But yeah, we won’t be losing sleep over it.”

Q: There’s been some chat this week about potentially a new contract for Daizen Maeda I imagine that’s something that if it was possible you’d back?

Brendan Rodgers: “Absolutely, if there is that possibility to do that. I’ve spoken with Dermot and the club and spoken with the player and hopefully in the future that is something that can be done. He’s been absolutely brilliant for us this season. Wherever he’s played, however he’s played, he’s had an amazing season. So of course you would love to tie up one of your best players.”

Q: Do you get the feeling from the chat you’ve had with him that he wants to stay here?

Brendan Rodgers:  “He doesn’t give away much. Other than saying he’s very happy. I think I look and see how he plays. But listen, I’m also under no illusions here. There’s very few players that are going to do what Callum McGregor does. Some of these players have a lifetime here like James Forrest. Some players, especially these players that are from other parts of the world, they might fancy a change. It’s nothing to do with Celtic or the club or the support, it’s just life. But all I can do is judge when he’s here. He’s been brilliant here. He’s still contracted well here to the club. But of course there has been chats around improving that for him because he’s grown into one of the top players here.”

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