Brendan blocked mymove

From Back Page enquired about de Vries due to his lack of Parkhead playing time.

But Rodgers made it clear there was no prospect of the keeper leaving due to his value to the squad.

De Vries has since signed a new contract extension and says the decisions taken by himself and his boss six months ago have now paid off.

When asked if he thought of leaving to play games he said: “Yes, of course I did. In the summer there was some interest.

“I could have gone back to the Premier League but, at that moment, I wasn’t allowed to go.

“He (Rodgers) said he didn’t want to lose me because of my experience and the type of guy I am in the dressing room.

“If you only have a couple of weeks left in the transfer window who are you going to get in?

“It can be tricky and I understood how he felt.

“You have to respect that decision. You can’t mope about it.

“Besides the not playing bit which always hurts all the other bits were really good.

“The coaching staff keep you going.

“I’m really fortunate with my family, who are really enjoying where we live. It’s a great area.

“We have a winning team, being involved in a European-playing team. Winning trophies. You take that on board as well and it keeps you fighting for more.

“I’ve worked with the gaffer in the past and he has been great for me.

“Am I happy how it has gone? I’m always happiest when I am playing and right now I am playing.”

De Vries underlined his commitment by signing the new deal and added: “There were a lot of things to think about.

“You weigh the pros and cons and think what’s best for me and my family.

“Then there’s loyalty to the gaffer and I also had a point to prove to him.

“I wanted to fight for him as well.”