Adam Idah makes his feelings about Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers

Adam Idah makes his feelings about Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers clear as he details Norwich pain

Adam Idah makes his feelings about Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers.  Adam Idah’s football journey has been a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the profound impact a manager can have on a player’s career. From facing challenges at Norwich City to finding renewed vigor under Brendan Rodgers at Celtic, Idah’s story offers insights into the highs and lows of professional football.

Early Challenges at Norwich City

Adam Idah’s tenure at Norwich City was marked by limited opportunities and a struggle to find consistent form. Despite his evident talent, he managed to score only 17 goals in 115 appearances for the club. This period was undoubtedly challenging for the young striker, as he grappled with the demands of the Premier League and the quest for regular first-team football.

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The environment at Norwich, while nurturing, lacked the high-pressure intensity that some players thrive under. Idah himself reflected on the differences between training at Norwich and Celtic, highlighting that while Norwich had its merits, the approach felt less urgent compared to the relentless ambition of Celtic. This contrast in environments played a role in his development and performance on the pitch.

The Brendan Rodgers Effect at Celtic

The turning point in Idah’s career came with his loan move to Celtic in January 2024. Under the guidance of Brendan Rodgers, Idah experienced a resurgence that showcased his true potential. Rodgers, familiar with Idah’s capabilities from his time in the Premier League, recognized the striker’s attributes—speed, dynamism, and strength. He believed that with better positioning, Idah could become a prolific goalscorer.

Rodgers’ approach was both strategic and empathetic. He simplified the game for Idah, advising him not to overthink and to play to his strengths. This managerial philosophy instilled a renewed sense of confidence in Idah. Reflecting on Rodgers’ influence, Idah stated, “I think having a manager that has that confidence in you is massive for me and just makes everything so simple for me.” ​

On-Field Success and Key Moments

Idah’s impact at Celtic was immediate and profound. He scored nine goals in 19 appearances during his loan spell, each goal underscoring his growing confidence and synergy with the team. A standout moment was his decisive goal in the Scottish Cup final against Rangers, where he capitalized on a fumble by the opposing goalkeeper to secure a 1-0 victory for Celtic. This goal not only clinched the cup but also highlighted Idah’s knack for delivering in high-pressure situations.

Rodgers was effusive in his praise, labeling Idah a “big-game player” and acknowledging his immense contribution to the team’s success. The manager’s belief in Idah’s potential was evident as he expressed a desire to make the loan move permanent, emphasizing the striker’s high ceiling and the development he had undergone at Celtic.

Transition to a Permanent Move

Recognizing the mutual benefits of the partnership, Celtic secured Idah’s services on a permanent basis in the summer of 2024. The transfer, valued at an initial £8.5 million with potential add-ons, was a testament to the club’s faith in Idah’s abilities and potential. This move marked a new chapter in Idah’s career, offering him a platform to further hone his skills and contribute significantly to Celtic’s ambitions. ​

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Reflections on Norwich City and Personal Growth

While Idah’s time at Norwich City was fraught with challenges, it also served as a period of learning and personal growth. The contrasting environments of Norwich and Celtic provided him with a broader perspective on professional football. At Celtic, the high-pressure environment, coupled with a relentless pursuit of excellence, resonated with Idah’s personal ambitions. He noted that training at Celtic instilled a championship mentality and an urgency to succeed, which differed markedly from his experiences at Norwich.

The Road Ahead

Under Brendan Rodgers’ mentorship, Adam Idah has transformed into a more confident and effective striker. The manager’s ability to simplify the game and instill confidence has been instrumental in Idah’s resurgence. As Idah continues his journey with Celtic, the foundation laid by Rodgers’ guidance and the experiences garnered from his time at Norwich will undoubtedly shape his future endeavors.​

In conclusion, Adam Idah’s career trajectory underscores the profound impact of effective management and the importance of finding the right environment to thrive. His experiences at Norwich City and Celtic serve as a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of belief and support in professional football.