Brian McVeigh 
Ian MacNicol/Getty Images Sport
Three days on from Europa League disappointment in Valencia, Brendan Rodgers knew that a difficult challenge lied ahead with the visit of Motherwell, who had won their last six matches.
Captain Scott Brown was missing due to suspension, so Nir Bitton was introduced, and Ewan Henderson was given a chance to shine ahead of much-played Calum McGregor.
With Kieran Tierney making a long-awaited return to the side and Odsonne Edouard starting up front, it was clear that fresh legs were needed to come through victorious.
Not so long ago, Celtic were looking a bit jaded and had an injury list as long as that of Alfredo Morelos’ red cards. Now with key players returning from long lay-offs and young players adding more urgency and hunger, the champions are looking in fine fettle.
Scoring four goals at home is something which many fans are now coming to expect, despite two coming in the dying minutes of an ill-tempered contest. Edouard hadn’t scored since December so his two today, including a sumptuous free-kick, were welcomed by the home support.
Young Henderson is something of an exciting prospect and has been talked about as a real talent. Today, he was the man of the match and can be considered a real find as rumours persist on the future of Olivier Ntcham.
With 11 games to go in the league, this win consolidates the eight-point advantage at the top. March can be seen as a month when the league title can be all but secured, with the home game against second-placed Rangers the one to watch.
The big thing today is that, despite injuries and suspensions, Brendan Rodgers can be satisfied and will be looking forward to Tynecastle on Wednesday.
Hearts are a team who have caused Celtic problems at home and will be keen to inflict their second win of the season over the champions. A strong performance will be required, and with Brown set to return, the Hoops will be up for the challenge.
