Journalist David Friel has revealed that Brendan Rodgers was a strong supporter of bringing Jahmai Simpson-Pusey to Celtic, despite the defender never establishing himself at the club.
Simpson-Pusey arrived with a reputation and expectation that he would feature quickly. He came in during a period when Celtic were already dealing with defensive issues. His lack of minutes soon became a talking point.
Rodgers’ resignation in October changed the landscape around the squad. Several players found themselves reassessed under new management. Simpson-Pusey, however, never managed to force his way into contention before his loan was cut short.
Friel’s comments are notable because they contrast sharply with what played out on the pitch. A player described as a clear target and an obvious fit barely featured at all. That gap between intent and outcome has now become clearer.
He said: (TheScottishSunSPORT), “People will still tell me at Celtic that this was one Brendan Rodgers was really keen on, and it was viewed as a no-brainer.
“I know that pretty much every English Championship team was interested in the summer.
“It was almost viewed as a bit of a coup for Celtic to get him in.
“Given that Cameron Carter-Vickers has been out for the bulk of the season, he’s a right-sided centre-half.
“You would think there’s your primary replacement, but he’s just never ever got a sniff.”
Simpson-Pusey’s spell at Celtic ended without the impact many expected. He made one appearance under Martin O’Neill, and struggled to get into matchday squads. His departure left questions about how the situation was handled.
The timing of Rodgers’ exit matters when looking back at the move. Plans put in place earlier in the season did not survive the change in the dugout. That left some players caught between ideas and priorities.
For Celtic, the episode fits into a wider pattern of uncertainty during that period. Recruitment decisions were made under one vision and carried through under another. That disconnect has been a recurring theme.
Friel’s insight gives supporters a clearer picture of how highly Simpson-Pusey was rated before arriving. It also explains why his lack of involvement felt so confusing at the time. With hindsight, it now stands as another example of how quickly circumstances shifted at the club.
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