Hartley happy to accept rotation

Celtic midfielder acknowledges the need for rest

Last updated: 24th September 2008

Hartley happy to accept rotation

Hartley: Accepts rotation

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Celtic midfielder Paul Hartley is prepared to accept the squad rotation policy of manager Gordon Strachan.

The Bhoys defeated Livingston in the third round of the Co-op Insurance Cup on Tuesday with Hartley in the starting XI.

But the Scotland international acknowledges he will not always be a part of Strachan's first-team plans as the Bhoys do battle on four fronts.

Hartley was a crucial member of the Celtic side which won the SPL last term, but he has backed the rotation policy that Strachan has employed this season.

"You only have to look at the top teams in England and you can see that squad rotation is important now because of the amount of games you play," Hartley told the Evening Times

"You have to use what you have available. I think everybody accepts that.

"Players want to play every week, but that is impossible now with the amount of matches.

"With league games, cup ties and international matches, you have to rotate the squad."