“The club, the board, the fans, the majority of them at this stage I would think, are very happy that he’s here” – Pat Bonner shares exciting news to Celtic fans as he confirms ‘World-class Elite Man’ has committed to Celtic, preparing for the club’s UCL games after being motivated by The Rangers to be at Parkhead

Despite uncertainties about his long-term tenure, Brendan Rodgers is anticipated to stay dedicated to sustaining Celtic’s supremacy in Scotland while also striving for achievements in Europe, according to Pat Bonner…

As he nears the final year of his agreement, the Celtic manager is set for summer talks with majority shareholder Dermot Desmond.

However, Celtic legend Bonner strongly believes the Irishman will remain entirely focused on fending off theRangers and making a mark in the Champions League, undaunted by any off-field disruptions or contract discussions.

Speaking at the Refugee World Cup media conference Bonner said: “Brendan is an elite manager. His future doesn’t get in the way for him. He’s really focused on getting in the players he wants and preparing for that initial first game in Europe.

“And if he gets over that hurdle, gets the right players in, he’ll be a happy, happy man. Has theRangers re-energised him? I hope so. I’ve always said that Celtic need competition. Last year was slightly different from a European context in that they did so well in the Champions League. I think the league format helped them. It was really good and I think we were all excited about that and the way that it was different,” the Irishman said.

“Now they have to build on that. But I think when you’re in this league and you’re trying to perform in Europe and you’re trying to enhance the team, you do need other teams to challenge you and the players can grow from that. So there are no concerns around that. I think he’ll relish that, actually, if it happens.”

Bonner continued: “I’m just happy that he’s there at this point in time because he’s building the squad. It’s not a major overhaul, maybe two out, two or three in. Get up and get over this first qualification for Champions League again and then build on what they did last year and carry it on.”

“Listen, last year was a fantastic year for them. Take away the Scottish Cup final, which was disappointing, they won a Double and they did so well in Europe. You wouldn’t even think about anything.”

Rodgers has made it clear he plans to fulfill his current contract and has also kept the possibility open for a potential extension. But, Bonner has encouraged Celtic fans to simply value having their manager in charge for the time being.

The former Celtic goalkeeper said: “The most important thing for Brendan is that he’s still here and he made it very clear last year when that discussion happened that he was here and he was going to be here. That’s important. That’s important for continuity and so on and so forth. But there will be a time when he leaves – just like everybody else.”

“That’s when the board and everybody else has got to do their preparation well before that situation arises. But at this moment in time, I think the club, the board, the supporters, the majority of them at this stage I would think, are very pleased that he’s there and he’s steering the ship and he’s in charge.

“I’m just happy he’s here. You’re at a stage in this world where things happen. This is a strange world. It’s not like the old days where you have somebody there for maybe four, five, six years, ten years, in some cases longer. But now it’s about rotating the people. So as long as he’s here and he says he’s totally committed for next year.”