When Rodgers return to Glasgow was confirmed in June, some Celtic fans reflected back on his abrupt departure to Leicester City while on track for a third successive treble in February 2016.
And as Rangers fought their way back into the title race in the early part of the year, the murmurs of discontent grew louder.
But in retaining his side’s title, the Northern Irishman has quietened his doubters, says former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner.
“There was hurt Brendan Rodgers returned,” he said on Sportsound. “He went down to a big team in England, those opportunities don’t come too often.
“Some fans found it difficult to accept. Rodgers has got over the negativity.”
While Michael Stewart believes the manager has once again proved his credentials, he says continental success will be next on Rodgers’ bucket list.
“Rodgers is a top class, elite manager,” the ex-Scotland international said.
“The one thing that will irk him is that he hasn’t been able to have a real impact in Europe with Celtic. That’s the next step.