I hold no grudge against Brendan Rodgers, says Efe Ambrose

Efe Ambrose says he is 'always grateful' to Celtic coach Brendan Rodgers, and claims he holds 'no grudge' against him.

The 29-year-old was shipped out of Parkhead on loan to Hibernian earlier in March and the center-back has long recovered his form under Neil Lennon at Easter Road.

The Nigerian was on the scoresheet as Hibernian fought back from two goals down to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against his former side.

"Well, I thank God for his favour upon my career. He is behind my good performances," Ambrose told Goal.

"For my critics, criticism is part of the game and that has only made me stronger, better and will drive me to the next level of my career.

"I do not hold any grudge or bitterness against my former coach (Brendan Rodgers) because be helped my career behind the scene and I will always be grateful for the opportunity he gave me."

Reflecting on his goal and draw against the Hoops, Ambrose said: "It was a great feeling for me scoring my first league goal this season but the draw was a great result for us.

"Celtic were not better than us in that game but had luck on their side to be ahead of us first. I remembered promising to score soon. But I never expected it will happen so soon and let alone against my former team.

"For the team, we knew a point was very important and can really make big difference at the end of the season. So we fought hard to get a draw in the match."

On Wednesday's 2-1 home loss to Rangers, the defender says his side will keep fighting to finish among the top teams in the Scottish topflight.

"We have to move on and keep fighting to end up there with the best teams. We know Rangers were a good side, even though we had an away win over them," he continued.

"We will remain focus and continue to respect every opponent that comes our way and we must fight hard and approach every game like a Cup final. Winning games are never easy but we have to earn it."

Hibs are fourth on the Scottish Premiership log with 30 points from 18 games and will travel to face third-place Aberdeen at Pittodrie Stadium on Saturday.