‘Disappointed’ Brendan Rodgers claims he would have kept Leicester up
Brendan Rodgers insists he would have been able to keep Leicester in the Premier League had he been allowed to see things through. The manager left by mutual consent on Sunday after four years but feels he had unfinished business.
Rodgers, who leaves Leicester second from bottom after a run of five defeats and one draw in the league, said in a statement via the League Managers Association: “I am obviously disappointed to depart so close to the end of the season and had every confidence that we would have delivered the results needed to preserve the club’s Premier League status.
“I would like to wish everybody at the club the very best of luck as they seek to continue to deliver on this objective. There is a strong infrastructure and environment in place that puts the club on a strong footing to move forward – a world-class training facility, a passionate and unswerving fanbase, a group of great players full of ability and character, and special owners.”
Rodgers intends to return to the dugout and made a point of reflecting on the high of his FA Cup success in 2021. “I’m now looking forward to having a chance to reflect and recharge and get ready for the next opportunity,” he said, before paying tribute to Leicester’s board and adding: “Winning against Chelsea at Wembley Stadium in 2021, to deliver a first FA Cup for the club and its supporters, together with securing European qualification in consecutive seasons are moments I will never forget.”
Leicester’s James Maddison paid tribute to Rodgers, tweeting: “Thank you gaffer. A top manager and even more importantly a brilliant and caring man. Your impact on my career and life outside of football is something I’ll be grateful for forever.”
Leicester face Aston Villa on Tuesday with the first-team coaches Adam Sadler and Mike Stowell in temporary charge.