The Hoops enjoyed a successful pre-season trip to the USA where they defeated DC United, Manchester City and Chelsea, scoring 12 goals across those three games, and the Celtic manager has revealed that it has been the best build-up to a new campaign that he has had as a manager.

With Derek McInnes’ side travelling to Celtic Park for Sunday’s match, Brendan Rodgers knows that the positive preparations his squad have gone through will be key as the champions look for the perfect start to the season.

“Pre-season has gone as well as I could have hoped for,” he said. “It’s arguably one of the best pre-seasons I’ve ever had.

“In terms of mentality, the work, the intensity and seeing the team grow. The players look sharp, fit and strong and we’re in a really good place.

“There’s always a challenge with Derek’s teams, he’s a fantastic coach.

'Every time we play against them, we have to be at our best and that’s what we aim to be at the weekend.'

“It’s a tough start for us, but we have to go and make that first step and make it a good step."

It was announced today that Lisbon Lion, Jim Craig, will be unfurling the league flag before Sunday’s match, an honour which the manager says is fitting for the Celtic legend.

“Jim’s a club legend,” he said. “He carries himself like a legend does with class and integrity. I’ve known Jim around the club for a long time. It’ll be really nice for him and the family.

“It’s a great way for us to symbolise the achievement of last season and begin the defence of this season. There’s no better guy to do that.”

Manager: Our objective this season is even more success