Disappointed Brendan Rodgers admits Aberdeen weren’t spectacular, Names the Celtic Players that are to BLAME for GIFTING The Dons the Scottish Cup after they went against his Tactics and COST Celtic a Treble this season, these players have got Bl00d on their hands

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers conceded that his side failed to meet the level expected in the Scottish Cup Final. Celtic were denied a Treble after Aberdeen triumphed on penalties, with Callum McGregor and Alistair Johnston missing their attempts from the spot.

Speaking to BBC Sportsound following the match, Rodgers avoided blaming individual players but acknowledged that Celtic underperformed and allowed Aberdeen to stay in contention.

“Our quality, our running, especially in the final third. We had a lot of the ball, but we lacked our combinations, our speed in the final third, our runs. When you play like that, and Aberdeen defend well, that made it difficult for us.

“With the greatest respect, it was more ourselves. We failed to get to the level you need to get to. We’ve played against a 5-3-2 so many times this season, scored goals against it. But you have to be slick, precise, running, and not be safe.

“There were too many times where we weren’t getting turned, we were setting the ball back. You need that personality.

“Unfortunately, that combination of not being at our level and Aberdeen being very motivated to defend, we couldn’t quite make the breakthrough.”

Rodgers’ remarks hit the mark — the squad lacked the intensity they’ve displayed throughout the season. However, the changes made at the hour mark didn’t do much to influence the outcome. Engels, Idah and Kühn might have contributed more in the final third had they stayed on the field, even if they found it hard to make an impact.

Celtic still had opportunities to win it. Arne Engels struck the frame of the goal, as did Jefferey Schlupp, but the clearest chance went to Daizen Maeda, who burst through one-on-one only to be stopped by Mitov.

The Player of the Year has converted similar opportunities numerous times this season, and perhaps the sheer number of matches he’s played has worn him down. There’s a case to be made that the squad lacked depth, and the absence of Jota and Reo Hatate was certainly felt.

Rodgers has previously mentioned the need to bring in 3-4 key players to inject pace and physicality into the squad. The manager will likely take some time away over the summer before returning to prepare for the next season.