Brendan Rodgers is on the verge of getting back into management, and one of his former players thinks it is about bloody time.
The Antrim native has been unemployed since being sacked by Liverpool eight games into the Premier League season last October.
The Ulsterman paid the price for an indifferent start to the season and a wild summer spending spree that failed to ignite in the opening weeks of the campaign.
However, he did almost lead Liverpool to the title two seasons before, and Jurgen Klopp’s squad, assembled by Rodgers, did almost win two cup finals this season.
Almost.
The 43-year-old is understood to be close to being unveiled as Celtic’s new manager, and a man who did so much to aid Rodgers while at Anfield has spoken up for his former boss.
Luis Suarez enjoyed an incredible first full season at Barcelona, top-scoring for the club as they won La Liga on the final day.
⚽ With an amazing 40 goals to his name, Luis Suárez has won the two top scoring awards: https://t.co/l8HF2Dt0KK pic.twitter.com/fgLbNohx1r
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 17, 2016
However, the Uruguayan feels that his skill and talent was greatly enhanced by Rodgers during his spell on Merseyside.
Suarez feels that it is about time Rodgers got back to work, and has urged Celtic’s players to soak up all they can from the Irishman.
“He is one of the best coaches in Europe and I am not surprised he is looking to get back into the game because it is a game he loves.
“I am glad he has taken his time since leaving Liverpool. He should only be looking at the top jobs, with the top clubs, who will be playing Champions League football.
“If it was not for Brendan, then I know I would not be the same player that you see at Barcelona today.
Rodgers man management was one of his strengths, and various players, including Stephen Hunt, have often spoken about Rodgers’ dedication and one-on-one sessions with footballers.
Suarez feels that the former Swansea boss is a wonderful asset to any club, and was crucial to his spike in performances while at Liverpool.
“Such a big part of my education is down to him and his management.
“Of course he works to make the team stronger but he really works on a one to one level with the players.
“He will sit down with each player at the club, and work on where you can improve, where you can exploit opposition, he leaves nothing to chance.
“He is a very intelligent man. If the players at his next club listen to his words, they will become better players for sure.”
Rodgers is understood to have had two interviews at Celtic Park for the vacant job in Glasgow, and is close to being unveiled in the next 48 hours as Ronny Delia’s long-term successor.
We look forward to seeing Anthony Stokes transformed next season into the Dublin Suarez after these comments.
