Tomoki Iwata in honest Celtic game time assessment as he reveals masterplan to 'gradually' win over Brendan Rodgers

The midfielder has made just two appearances this term since the return of Rodgers to Celtic Park.

Determined Tomoki Iwata admits he is still earning the trust of Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers this term as he looks to ramp up his game time.

The former Yokohama F Marinos midfielder was brought to the club by Ange Postecoglou in January before the loan deal became permanent just before Rodgers was appointed - but he has struggled to make an impact under the Irishman this term. He was handed his first minutes of the campaign in the Champions League defeat to Feyenoord as the nine-man Hoops looked to keep the Dutch champions at bay, before coming on from the bench in the 3-0 Scottish Premiership victory over Livingston.

The versatile 26-year-old can play in defence of as the anchorman in the midfield engine room - and he is hoping to increase his game time after being handed more minutes by Rodgers. Speaking to Japanese outlet Football Zone, Iwata was asked if he expected to play in Celtic's next group stage clash with Lazio following red cards to Gustaf Lagerbielke and Odin Thiago Holm.

He responded: "It's going to be quite difficult as the two players who were sent off against Feyenoord will be suspended, but Carter-Vickers will also be back after being out due to injury. It's unclear whether I'll be able to play on the pitch.

"However, I will try to appeal in training in order to seize the opportunity. By gradually increasing my chances to play in this way and I can make the coach realise that I am a player who can bring something positive to the team."

Iwata also rhymed off attributes he feels like he can bring to the side as he attempts to catch the eye of the Celtic boss. He went on: "In the match against Feyenoord Calvin Stengs, who was below the top of the opponent, was attacking us one-on-one in a fairly narrow space. I want to show that I can stop a player like that. That's my strength, and it's my selling point.

"If I can pitch in as a midfielder, I feel like I'll be able to match up with the opponent's key players more often and have more opportunities to show off. However, my strength is also that I can play a wide range of positions as a midfielder, wing back and centre-back.

"During my time at Marinos, I contributed to the team by playing a variety of roles and won titles. In the same way, in the current environment, I just have to do my best every day."