Brendan Rodgers has responded to growing speculation linking him with a surprise move into international management ahead of the World Cup.
The former Celtic boss, currently in charge of Al-Qadsiah, had emerged as a frontrunner to take over the Saudi Arabia national team.
He could replace Hervé Renard following a difficult international window that saw the side suffer defeats against Egypt and Serbia.
Rodgers has made an immediate impact since arriving in Saudi Arabia, with his side yet to taste defeat under his leadership.
That form only fuelled talk of a potential step up to the national job.
But the 53-year-old has now shut down the rumours.
Speaking on the speculation, Rodgers said:
“I have no comment on this matter.
“I am committed to my contract and working with Al-Qadisiyah and I look forward to giving my all in the coming period.
“I believe that the Saudi national team is capable of delivering a strong tournament.
“They have a distinguished group of players along with highly experienced coaching staff, which gives me great confidence in their ability to perform admirably and deliver outstanding performances during the World Cup competition.” [Glasgow Times]
For now, Rodgers’ focus remains firmly on his club duties despite the noise linking him with an international role.
But with the World Cup on the horizon, this may not be the last time his name is mentioned.
Saudi Arabia is in Group H for the tournament this summer. They’ll play Uruguay in their opener, before playing Spain and Cape Verde in the other matches, but who will be in the dugout for the matches is still to be confirmed.
From the Celtic dugout to an unbeaten run in Saudi Arabia to potentially managing at the World Cup. Could anyone have predicted that when the flag was unfurled against St Mirren on the opening day of the season?
Keep Reading
