SHELL SHOCKED
Celtic fans stunned at lauded boss’s sudden switch down south.. but return of ex-manager Lenny lifts their spirits
THE Hoops faithful hail it as Paradise but Celtic Park wasn’t a happy place yesterday.
The sun was shining outside, lighting up the famous stadium – but it was setting on Brendan Rodgers’s trophyladen time in charge of the club.
And as the Northern Irishman was in the Midlands sealing a deal to become new boss of Leicester City, Celtic fans were reeling from the news and what it would mean for the rest of this season and the longer term.
Most were distraught at the 46-year-old’s departure as the club chase a historic treble Treble.
But others were philosophical, conceding that former Liverpool gaffer Rodgers was always going to be lured back to the riches and prestige of the English Premier League.
And they found some solace in the fact that club legend Neil Lennon was returning to Parkhead to replace Rodgers – at least until the summer – in time for tonight’s match at Hearts.
Jacqui Dunne, 49, from Glasgow’s Gorbals, told the Record: “I ’m shellshocked. I still can’t process it, far less think about the Hearts game.”
Daniel Agnew, 32, from Johnstone, Renfrewshire, added: “I got out of the gym this morning to loads of texts and three missed calls about this. I’m absolutely fuming. He’d ditching us before the season is over, all for money.”
Michaela Little Woodhouse, 40, added: “I can’t believe it, we need an explanation. As far as Neil Lennon goes as a replacement, I’m not sure.”
Tony Cassidy, 46, from Pollok, Glasgow, wasn’t surprised. He said: “You go where the money is, that’s all there is to it. Brendan has done well here but he’ll get more money for the transfer season down south. We all love Neil Lennon, he’d do a good job as the new manager.”
Annette Groundwater, 45, also from the Gorbals, said: “In any field of work, you move on when money’s involved.
“I was so shocked but understand where he’s coming from.”
Tam McAffrey, 65, from Carntyne, Glasgow, added: “Fans are just shocked and devastated. Neil Lennon needs to be able to handle Celtic and the abuse that can come with it.
“But I think he’s matured over the years
and understands the club.” Many fans clung to the hope that Rodgers would have a last-minute change of heart.
But last night came the confirmation that Leicester had their man, as he was unveiled at the King Power Stadium.
And there was another bitter pill for even the most cynical Celtic supporter to swallow. Rodgers told Foxes fans: “I’ll give my life to make the supporters proud of their club. Together, we’ll be stronger and I’m looking forward to working with the players, staff and supporters to make the right steps forward.”