Nat Phillips was never supposed to play for Celtic against Ranger, according to Brendan Rodgers
The loaned-out centre back from Liverpool is not listed in the matchday roster for the crucial game at Ibrox.
After speaking with the Anfield medical staff, Rodgers also acknowledged that he was aware of the defender’s fitness prior to finalising a deal for him.
Although Phillips was not deemed prepared for the journey to Ibrox, Rodgers is optimistic that he will be able to make his Celtic debut following the break.
When asked about Phillips being left off the team, Rodgers responded to Sky Sports, saying, “It was always the idea. He knew going in that this was the game he couldn’t win.
“We have to take care of him because we spoke with the Liverpool medical staff.
But, perhaps, he will be able to play after the international break.
Phillips said of his move to Celtic: “I’m incredibly excited. I became excited when I learned about the interest.
There were a few other options that didn’t quite make me feel the same as this one did, so I was really keen to get it over the line and I’m delighted to be here now.
“It’s the history of the club.
The club’s size, its level of competition, its participation in the Champions League this season, and their winning mindset all speak to how big the organisation is.
“We’re thrilled to have Nat join Celtic and we’re looking forward to working with him in the months ahead,” Rodgers continued.
“It’s been well-documented that owing to a number of injuries we’ve faced, it was an area of the club we wanted to look at in the near term, so we’re happy that Nat will provide that defensive assistance in the squad.
“Nat comes to Celtic with the benefit of having played for another major club, Liverpool, and those experiences will be helpful to him.
