Brendan Rodgers: Celtic are one of the biggest clubs in the world

23 May 2016 15:53

New Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers insists he joining one of the biggest clubs in the world and set his sights on continuing the domination of Scottish football as well as making an impact again in Europe.

The 43-year-old's appointment on a 12-month rolling contract was announced by the Ladbrokes Premiership champions on Friday.

Rodgers was presented to the media on Monday afternoon ahead of meeting Hoops supporters at Celtic Park.

The Northern Irishman has been out of work since being sacked by Liverpool last October, but believes the opportunity to take over the Bhoys following the departure of Ronny Deila at the end of the season was one he is relishing.

"I left a really special club at Liverpool. I wanted to have a good rest, to come away from the game for a bit and hopefully go into another big football club," Rodgers said at a press conference.

"I had opportunities to stick down south in the (Barclays) Premier League or go abroad, but after (chief executive) Peter (Lawwell) called me once Ronny's annoucement (had been made), out of respect, I spoke to him and when I met, they sold the club to me.

"My emotional attachment (to Celtic) is very strong, it has been for many years... there is a draw for me here...

"(I know) people talk about the level (of Scottish football), but Celtic is one of the biggest clubs in the world, it is certainly not a step down, it is an institution."

Rodgers added: "The objective is very clear, it is to continue with the domination of Scotland and also make an impact on European football."

Source: PA