Chris Sutton moots Celtic-Rangers scenario as ‘flak’ flies across Glasgow
Chris Sutton can’t imagine Brendan Rodgers losing three of his first six games in charge of Celtic including an Old Firm clash against Rangers.
The former Leicester boss is in advanced talks with the Hoops’ hierarchy over a return to Parkhead four years after his departure.
Writing in his latest column for The Daily Record, Sutton feels the pressure will be on the 50-year-old from the outset due to the manner of his previous exit.
“It will be up to the manager to deliver the goods right from the outset because I’m not sure he’ll not be cut the same slack as he would have in the past,” wrote Sutton (Daily Record, 17 June).
“For example, Postecoglou was given time for the shambles he inherited and he was afforded patience from the fans when he lost three of his first six Premiership games including one to Rangers at Ibrox.
“Can you imagine if Rodgers loses three of his first six games next season including the Old Firm dust-up across the city? With the squad at his disposal? No, me neither.
“The flak would fly. There will be no grace period. Rodgers will be expected to deliver and straight away.”
Head to head
One positive of Rodgers’ return to Celtic is that there will be an increased focus on the Scottish Premiership from abroad.
The former Liverpool boss is a high-profile name and has enjoyed immense success in England with the Foxes in recent years. He won’t be returning with a shoestring budget at his disposal. He will be expecting heavy investment in a squad that certainly looked thin on the ground last season – particularly towards the end of the campaign.
Rangers’ recent transfer activity has certainly spoked those over in the East End. We knew there was going to be an overhaul, but Michael Beale’s plans have certainly come to fruition. Sam Lammers was the latest player to put pen to paper and could well be joined by Jose Cifuentes in the coming days.
There’s certainly plenty to be positive about for Gers fans. The problem areas have been addressed by Beale and there can be a genuine optimism heading into the new campaign.
In other Rangers news, the club are currently locked in talks with key stakeholders and the Scottish FA after their latest announcement.