Scott Allan lifts lid on relationship on his Celtic relationship with Brendan Rodgers

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The former Celtic boss tried to utilise the attacking midfielder in an unusual role.

Scott Allan has revealed a big difference in opinion with Brendan Rodgers on what his playing role at Celtic should have been, speaking to PLZ Soccer.

Allan was one of the players that Rodgers inherited back in 2016.

Despite initially getting on well with the former Hoops boss, who said he wanted to keep Allan, the midfielder claims that after a pre-season match it became apparent that Rodgers wanted to utilise him in a more defensive midfield position, something he didn’t feel comfortable with.

Speaking to Peter Martin on PLZ Soccer, Allan explained: “After one pre-season game, I think he wanted to play me in front of the back four.

“He kind of seen me in front of the back four as opposed to the behind the striker or further forward in the midfield.

“I know myself that wasn’t my best position. I like to play in a three in midfield, either as a No8 or behind the striker. For me, when I open up with the ball, if you run, there’s a chance that you’ll get the ball.”

Would that have worked?

As Allan notes, he certainly thrives when he is tasked with taking on opposition defences or setting up his teammates. The 27-year-old has a vision and weight of pass that makes him a very effective Scottish Premiership talent on his day.

Rodgers’ suggestion seems bizarre and would likely have restricted that kind of playmaking ability. It’s not as if Allan is particularly known for his robust defensive qualities.

Ultimately we’ll never really know how it would have panned out if attempted, but Allan’s comments certainly shine a light one why he didn’t get any opportunities under Rodgers.

Now at Easter Road, where he’s scored four goals and assisted three times already this season, he’s found a destination that allows him to get regular minutes and impact on matches in the way he wants to.