Ange Postecoglou shut down a hypothetical question on whether Liel Abada could reasonably ask for more minutes at Celtic.
The winger impressed in the 2-1 win over Livingston and had a goal ruled out by VAR at Parkhead.
After the match, Postecoglou was quizzed on whether Abada has done enough to warrant asking the manager for more game time at the club.
But, Postecoglou wasted little time as he gave short shrift to the hypothetical, stating: "No, that's not the way it works, mate."
"You don't put in requests for game time, it's all earned," he told BBC Sportsound.
"He's done very well, the most important thing with Liel is that he is constantly improving and wants to improve - every day he is looking to be a better player.
"I thought he was great today and really took the game to them. But even him a couple of times in the first half I thought he should have been in areas where we know he is really dangerous and can get goals.
"It's just a re-affirmation for him on his role in the team and why it is important."
The Celtic boss also offered an early injury update on Anthony Ralston after he was forced off injured in the win.
The full-back took a couple of knocks in the game but appeared to be unable to continue due to a back problem.
Asked if it seemed a serious problem, Postecoglou said: "We'll see, I hope it's nothing too serious. He got banged about a bit today to be fair. He got copped on the ankle then copped one on the nose and then I think his back seized up.
"We'll see how he is, but if Tony has half a chance, he'll play."
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