Brendan Rodgers hails performance of young defenders in 4-0 win over DC United

Brendan Rodgers was full of praise for Celtic youngsters Colby Donovan and Matthew Anderson after their performance in the 4-0 win over DC United.

The Hoops kicked off their US tour with a comfortable victory against the MLS side on Saturday night and the manager singled out the young pair as he hailed the intensity of the game.

Matt O’Riley claiming a double and wingers Mikey Johnston and James Forrest coming off the bench to notch with Johnston also missing a late penalty.

Seventeen year-old Donovan and 20-year-old Anderson, who has just returned from a loan spell at Admira Wacker in Austria,started at right and left-back either side of Stephen Welsh and Liam Scales.

And Rodgers felt their contribution provided a platform for the attacking players to create a string of chances in the United States capital.

Speaking to Celtic TV after the game he said: “I was really pleased with the performance in terms of this stage of the season.

“One of our key targets was defensive intensity because I always think when you have that defensive attitude then that brings the offensive attitude which is fast and dynamic.

“We pressed the game so well, all the guys from the first whistle really there in contention making the last step to win the ball.

“That sped up our offensive play. Some of our football on a really difficult surface was exceptional. Our physicality was good across the board and lots of young players playing and doing really well.”

Scott Bain and new signing Viljami Sinisalo played a half each in goal while another summer arrival, Kasper Schmeichel, took in the atmosphere from the sidelines as thousands of Celtic supporters watched the action.

“I spoke to him at length,” said Rodgers. “He always understood the size of the club. I told him beforehand that, listen, Celtic is a massive club but it’s small as a family inside it, and he will find the Celtic family is like no other.

“He sees the hallmarks of a big club. He was brought up with his father at a huge club. The support outside the hotel, all these symbols of a big club, Celtic supporters are everywhere and he will feel that during his time here.

“I know he is really excited and I am excited for him as well.”