Emotion was never going to be a match for Brendan Rodgers’ ambition

A Celtic-supporting ex-footballer who spent his entire career in the English leagues tells a story about how he nearly signed for the Scottish club. He had verbally agreed a new contract with his then Premier League employers but, upon receiving an overture from his boyhood heroes, found himself sitting in front of Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell.

“I’ve agreed a deal, I wouldn’t feel right about going back on my word,” the player said.