Celtic’s Champions League return leg against Bayern Munich is fast approaching, and Brendan Rodgers may have revealed part of his thinking through Saturday’s Premiership victory over Dundee United.
Adam Idah played almost the entire 90 minutes in the 3-0 win, a curious decision given how close the Munich clash now looms.
In matches before high-stakes European nights, managers usually protect players expected to play central roles.
Idah’s extended involvement, while others were spared, suggests Rodgers could be considering a different plan for Tuesday.
At Celtic Park in the first leg, Idah led the attack with Daizen Maeda starting wide.
The Hoops struggled to make early inroads, only sparking into life when tactical adjustments pushed Maeda centrally.
His tireless pressing unsettled Bayern’s rhythm, forcing mistakes and driving Celtic forward in the final stages.
That glimpse may influence Rodgers’ approach in Germany. Bayern are likely to control possession, so a forward line built on speed and pressing may be the answer.
Maeda’s explosive energy through the middle could unsettle defenders more than Idah’s physical presence, giving Celtic a sharper weapon on the counter.
Trailing 2-1, Celtic must avoid another sluggish beginning. Idah’s heavy workload at the weekend might point to him being used as an impact substitute rather than a starter, providing strength and fresh legs late on.
The Irish striker offers a target, but Maeda’s relentless running could prove more valuable from the outset in Munich.
Rodgers knows that to spring a shock, precision in selection is vital.
The weekend’s decisions hint at how he may line up when the Hoops step into the Allianz Arena.