Matt O'Riley admits fatigue played a part in Celtic's final pre-season match in Japan.
The Hoops defeated Gamba Osaka 1-0 as the curtain came down on their Asia tour.
Alexandro Bernabei scored the only goal of the game as the clock ticked down.
And while it wasn't a classic Celtic performance, O'Riley insists there were factors behind that.
He said: "It was tough and not just because of the weather as this pitch was bit more heavier than the first game. You will probably see on camera that some of the boy's faces were a bit more tired after this game but that is understandable after a week of travel, just starting to get over the jetlag.
"It was a good test and both of the teams here in Japan played some really good football and made it difficult for us.
"It has been a unique trip, at least in my experience, playing against teams like this as you are usually playing against teams who are also trying to build their fitness.
"That has been a challenge as both side's fitness were high as they are halfway through their season.
"From a structural point of view, they have good team cohesion and understand each other well. The games have been tough and I think they will help us going into the season."
On working with Rodgers, the attacking midfielder added: "I have been very lucky to work under two great managers in a short space of time so i am quite grateful to have worked with the calibre of manager I have at a young age.
"The gaffer is great at getting his point across in a concise way and that makes it easier for us to transition onto the pitch and being able to have a relationship with him where we can speak to each other and learn things constantly in an open environment. Thats quite enjoyable."
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