'If Dermot is involved,' says MON, 'I don’t think there is anything to worry about'

When the Irishman made his return to Celtic two years ago, he signed a three-year contract and vowed to see it through, aiming to silence critics still annoyed by his abrupt mid-season departure to Leicester City back in February 2019.

With Rodgers now in the final year of his contract having secured four domestic honours from six since his return, he insists he remains calm about the matter and sees no immediate need to commit to a new deal with the Scottish champions.

The Hoops manager revealed that initial talks have begun with Celtic majority shareholder Desmond, touching on several matters – with his own future at the club being a key point of focus.

O’Neill, who secured a Treble in his debut season under Desmond’s ownership 25 years ago, understands firsthand that the billionaire will go to great lengths to keep Rodgers – provided that is the Celtic boss’ own desire.

Speaking during his regular Monday morning slot on TalkSport alongside former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan, O’Neill said: “I don’t think there will be any major rush there for that. I think what he has done up there has been terrific.”

“In all honesty, if Dermot is involved, which he will be strongly, then I don’t think there is anything to worry about. I wouldn’t be too worried about the situation, at all. It depends on what Brendan wants to do. I assume Celtic will want to keep him.”

“But I have had dealings with Dermot Desmond. Dermot brought me into the football club. If Dermot wants to keep him, he will go out of his way to do so. It’s really as simple as that.”

Conor Spence

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