Brendan Rodgers explains reason behind Auston Trusty snub

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has explained his decision to pick Dane Murray ahead of Auston Trusty in Celtic’s backline. The Scottish Champions are without key defender Cameron Carter-Vickers, meaning that the manager has had to go to his squad.

Speaking to Celtic TV before the game, Rodgers was asked about the opportunity for Academy graduate Murray coming into the team for this top of the table clash.

“Yes it’s a big opportunity. I think if you want to play for Celtic, every game is a big game but of course when you come into here, to Tynecastle, which is a notoriously tough place then it’s what you have to do.

“You have to come in and show you can step up. I’ve got no qualms about Dane, he’s played so well over pre-season and the games he’s come into this season he’s done very well.

“He’s a big presence, he’s quick and he can play. This is a real opportunity for him to step in. It also gives us the balance in the team. Having two left footers at centre half, I’m not overly comfortable with.

“Bringing him in with his stature and how well he’s training, he deserves the opportunity.”

Trusty will feel unlucky not to be involved but the rationale from the manager makes sense, especially with the two right footers struggling together last season in the central pairing.

Murray will be relishing the opportunity to start for Celtic and hopefully he impresses. Brendan is putting a lot of trust in the player and hopefully that is rewarded with a strong showing.