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Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers shows his class as Steven Naismith has ‘valuable’ private conversation

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers shows his class as Steven Naismith has ‘valuable’ private conversation

Steven Naismith spoke about his conversation with Brendan Rodgers ahead of Hearts’ defeat at Celtic Park yesterday afternoon.

The 2-0 victory leaves Hearts bottom of the Scottish Premier League and Celtic eight points clear of Rangers ahead of their trip to Tannadice this afternoon.

After the game, Naismith was asked about the long chat he had with Brendan Rodgers. The Hearts manager would not say what was said, but he did admit he had a ‘nice moment’ with the Celtic manager.

Naismith has ‘lent support to’ Celtic boss

Naismith faces a tough season at Hearts after they picked up just one point from their opening five league games, but he praised Rodgers for giving him time ahead of the Celtic clash.

Naismith told BBC Radio Scotland: “No, I’m not going to tell you what he says. The biggest thing I think I’ve been lucky with personally is that we’ve got some great managers in this league.

“We have experienced managers who, no matter how much you are rivals and try to outdo each other, all have time for you.

“That’s the biggest thing I’ve seen in the last year in a long time. Every manager I’ve come across has given me their time, they’ve been willing to answer all my questions and as a young manager that’s so valuable.

“It was a nice moment, but everyone in this competition, including the managers, has been fantastic with me.”

When asked if Rodgers wished him a happy birthday, Naismith continued: “No, I think he probably will after the game. Like I said, I’ve leaned on it a few times over the last year or so. Just little moments that come along that you don’t think about.

“And like I said, a lot of these managers in this league are second to none.”

Rodgers’ class shines

Brendan Rodgers has indeed been mentioned many times on 67 Hail Hail for his management style and the way he treats his players.

Celtic's Arne Engels reacts to his manager Brendan Rodgers after being substituted during the SPL | Premier League match between Celtic FC and H...
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

We discussed this morning how Celtic manager Reo Hatate showed excellent control after giving his penalty to Arne Engels, allowing the Belgian to score his first goal for the club.

We also spoke about how Spurs’ James Maddison highlighted the differences between Rodgers and Ange Postecoglou’s management styles, with the Celtic manager being praised for the way he communicates with the players on a personal level.

Rodgers’ approach with the Celtic players certainly seems to be paying off on and off the pitch, with the Parkhead manager continuing to make new friends and showing his care and respect for opposing managers.

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