Roberts lured by Rodgers
PATRICK ROBERTS has cited the influence of Brendan Rodgers as the prime motivator in his decision to dig in for a return to Celtic. The Manchester City winger’s return to Glasgow on a season-long loan has finally been confirmed with the 20-year-old being handed the iconic No 7 jersey. An integral part of the side which became the first in Scottish football history to lift the Treble while unbeaten, Roberts was offered the chance to spend the year at Nice, Girona or
Southampton, but he made it clear to City chiefs where his heart lay. Referencing the social media bombardment by Celtic supporters imploring him to extend his stay to two-and-a-half years, the £12million man claimed the chance to continue working with Rodgers was key to making his mind up. ‘All the support and love I have been getting has been brilliant,’ said Roberts. ‘I love it here and to be back is great. I’m thankful to be finally here. ‘We had a good end to the season, which obviously helped and playing for these great fans was also a factor in coming back. I can’t wait to get going again. ‘The manager has been brilliant with me. He obviously wanted me back. I had a decision to make after pre-season and Brendan Rodgers was a huge factor in that. ‘He is a top manager. I believe I can develop under him even more.’ The winger will now sport the same number of jersey worn in the past by club greats such as Jimmy Johnstone and Henrik Larsson. ‘It’s a massive honour to wear this iconic Celtic number,’ said Roberts. “I know some of the great players who have worn it in the past and I will wear it with pride.’