Rogic likened to Liverpool star by Celtic boss

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has heaped more praise on his Aussie playmaker Tom Rogic, comparing the Caltex Socceroo to Liverpool and England star Adam Lallana.

In a huge compliment for the young Aussie, former boss at Anfield Rodgers said Rogic’s technical ability reminded him of the England midfielder, who he signed for $42million during his time in charge of the Reds.

“Tom’s got huge potential. His bodywork is as good as you’ll get,” Rodgers told the Scottish Sun.

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“He and Lallana are of that same mould where they just roll out of trouble.

“Technically he’s so gifted and physically he’s better now.”

Rogic has been in superb form for Celtic so far this season, scoring 10 times in 25 appearances in all competitions.

The 23-year-old managed the same tally during the whole of last season, underlining his incredible form as well as his improved fitness.

Brendan Rogers and Tom Rogic

The former Nike Chance winner backed up his 90-minute outing against Motherwell last week – which included a brilliant stoppage-time winner – with another full game in the UEFA Champions League against Manchester City.

“Last Saturday [against Motherwell] he played right the way through and was a big player at the end,’’ Rodgers said.

“Sometimes when I sub Tom it’s not necessarily how he’s playing or he can’t last. Sometimes I just need to shore up the game with a more defensivetype player.

“His contribution against Manchester City was top class, and the beauty is he’s committed here – he sees this as his place to develop.’’

Meanwhile, Caltex Socceroo goalkeeper Mat Ryan won’t play again until the New Year after undergoing minor surgery in Spain.

Valencia confirmed on their website on Tuesday morning (AEDT) that the Aussie gloveman had a procedure to remove a small fibroma.