Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers sidestepped questions about rumors linking Jamie Vardy to a transfer to Parkhead, dismissing speculation about any last-minute signings ahead of the Champions League play-offs.
Celtic have until 11pm on Tuesday to make up to two changes to their European squad before facing Kairat Almaty in the first leg on Wednesday.
However, the former Leicester City boss appears likely to continue waiting for the new attacking reinforcements he has been seeking.
When asked if he now anticipated relying on the current squad, Rodgers said: “That’s what I am feeling at this moment in time. The players that we have will be the players that I trust can do the job.
“If we can get some players in before then, that would be amazing – but the focus has been very much on what is here at this moment.”
Reports on Monday suggested that 38-year-old free agent Vardy was eager to join Celtic Park after departing Leicester at the end of last season. During his 13 years as a City player, he scored 200 goals in 500 appearances, securing the Premier League title and the FA Cup.
Rodgers was swift to downplay the rumors while not entirely dismissing the possibility. Asked about Vardy, he said: “Listen, I would not speak about any individual player.
“Of course I worked really well with Jamie. He was brilliant for me in my time at Leicester. But there’s been so many names floated about. I wouldn’t disclose either way.”