Rodgers ready to return to work but coy over Celtic hotseat link

Brendan Rodgers has described the Celtic managerial vacancy as an opportunity for someone to go to one of the world’s iconic clubs after declaring himself ready to return to management.

The former Liverpool manager has been listed among the bookmakers’ favourites to succeed Ronny Deila when the Norwegian steps down at the end of the season.

When the prospect of taking over at Parkhead was put to him, the Northern Irishman told Sky Sports News HQ: “Well, it’s an incredible club, a club that family and everyone support. Obviously the league isn’t so competitive but Celtic are one of the great iconic clubs in the world, a huge club.

“I think Ronny has done a great job there, it looks like they will go on and win the title so that is two titles in a row. So I’ll be sad to see him go but there is an opportunity for somebody there to go to a great club.”

When asked directly if he could be the man, Rodgers said: “At this moment of time I’m just enjoying my time off and I’ll wait and see what offers come in and, at this moment, there is nothing concrete.

“I’m just really enjoying the rest but certainly in the summer I want to get back to work again.

Celtic will officially clinch the title if they get a point at home to Aberdeen on Saturday, although their nine-point and 35-goal advantage over the Dons ensured the celebrations already took place following their win against Hearts on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Hoops have announced the “biggest ever shirt sponsorship deal in Scottish football history” after Dafabet was named the club’s new main sponsor in a fouryear contract.

The firm will replace Magners on the front of the Celtic strip next season, with the cider brand moving to the back of the jersey.