Nir Bitton was exceptional for Celtic in the Champions League this week.
Speaking to The Mail, Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has praised the “top class” Nir Bitton for his performance in Wednesday’s Champions League win over Rosenborg.
Celtic moved into the last phase of Champions League qualifiers with a hard-fought 1-0 win away to the Norwegian side, with James Forrest being the hero on the night.
Another unlikely hero came in the form of Bitton, who replaced the injured Erik Sviatchenko after 25 minutes as Rodgers used the Israel international as a make-shift centre-back.
Hoops fans could be forgiven for fearing the worst upon seeing the 25-year-old take up that role, but he posted a fine performance in the middle of Celtic’s defence.
And Rodgers, speaking to The Mail, says that Bitton, often scapegoated by Bhoys supporters, had an “outstanding” game.
“I thought he was outstanding against Rosenborg. He had composure and at 6ft 4ins he can compete in the air,” said the Northern Irishman.
“He’s top class in his work. He’s very good for our squad, he can play a number of positions and he understands how I want to work.
“He’s someone the players like and showed his importance the other night.”
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