Brown: Interest in Rodgers would come as no surprise

Scott Brown was not surprised to see Brendan Rodgers’ name linked with the Aston Villa vacancy – but the Celtic skipper is amazed there have not been more clubs interested in his double-treble winning boss.

The Northern Irishman was heavily linked with the post over the weekend following Steve Bruce’s sacking and bookmakers continued to offer prices on the Hoops manager making the move to the Midlands until Dean Smith’s appointment last night.

Having led his club to sixstraight domestic trophies, Brown can see why.

What he cannot understand, however, is why his manager has not been the subject of more enquires.

The Celtic captain said: “The gaffer is always going to get job offers because he is a topquality manager.

“What he has done in Scotland since coming up here has been exceptional. With the way we’ve been playing over the last two seasons, it’s amazing there has not been a lot more offers.

“It’s not just what he’s done at Celtic, it’s what he did at Liverpool as well and everybody knows he’s a great manager with the way he deals with players, the media and the club as well.”

But Brown, who has been reborn under the former Anfield manager, is keeping his fingers crossed that Celtic can fend off the suitors who might seek to lure Rodgers south.

“He loves this club and it’s been great for him,” he insisted. “He wants to be here and has had a great two and a half years. Here’s hoping he can stay here for a little bit longer too.

“He’s been fantastic for me. I’ve learned a lot from him, whether it’s training or how he deals with players day to day.

“I just hope he stays so I can keep learning a little bit more.”