'Lots to do' on new Celtic recruits, says Rodgers

Celtic completed a deal for the return of striker Adam Idah (left) last week

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers says "there's lots that we need to do" in the transfer market and would like two new midfielders if Matt O'Riley is sold.

Rodgers explained that nothing has changed with O'Riley's situation, since no club has yet matched Celtic’s asking price for the 23-year-old.

"I haven't heard anything different than last week so there’s nothing new to add," he said. "His mentality is phenomenal.

"He’s a player that's continued to grow and you see the confidence that he's playing the game with.

"I still think we need another player in that position. If he was to go, we'd need two more.

So far this summer, former loan players Adam Idah and Paulo Bernardo have returned on permanent deals, while Kasper Schmeichel has replaced Joe Hart in goals.

"I will need to speak to the board," said Rodgers on the prospect of recruits. "There's a lot of work going on and there’s lots that we need to do, but for now it's really about the players that are here.

"They're doing a brilliant job. We know where we want to strengthen and I'm pretty hopeful that we can do that.

"I’m an experienced manager who knows that you need a strong squad as it’s a long season. Come September, there are more games and they're more intense. So we have to have a squad ready for that."

Maeda shines in mission through the middle

Star striker Kyogo Furuhashi missed Sunday's 3-1 win over Hibs in the League Cup, with fellow Japanese international Daizen Maeda moving into a central role and scoring twice.

Rodgers was full of praise for Maeda's performance, saying: "You don't play for Japan as a number nine in a World Cup if you’re not a striker, especially with the level of player they have.

"We've got other options but I also know he's a great option for us if we need him in that role. I know what he can give me in that position.

"He does all the things that I like in a striker. He can set the game up, come short quickly, he can run in behind very fast and he can finish.

"He's a different type of finisher to the other two guys (Kyogo and Idah) but he can play that role."

Kyogo was rested due to the recurrence of a shoulder problem but Rodgers indicated he would be fit to face St Mirren in the league at the weekend.