Rodgers named Leicester City manager after Celtic success

Brendan Rodgers has returned to the Premier League.

After winning seven trophies with Celtic - including consecutive domestic trebles - Rodgers agreed to become Leicester City's new manager on Tuesday.

The 46-year-old signed a contract until June 2022.

He replaces Claude Puel, who was fired by Leicester after a dismal 4-1 defeat to Crystal Palace on the weekend.

Leicester paid around £6 million in compensation to Celtic, according to The Telegraph's John Percy. Rodgers had another two years left on his contract.

"I'm very privileged and honoured to be here as Leicester City manager and I'll give my life to make the supporters proud of their club," Rodgers said in a statement. "Together, we'll be stronger and I'm looking forward to working with the players, staff, and supporters to make the right steps forward."

Rodgers came close to winning the Premier League during his time at Liverpool, falling just short of the title in the 2013-14 season. Two years prior, the Northern Irishman led Swansea City to the Premier League for the first time in their history.

He now finds Leicester in 12th place in the league, just eight points above the relegation zone.

A more attack-minded manager than his predecessor, Rodgers will try to win back supporters who grew disillusioned with Puel's more conservative football.

"I'm absolutely delighted to bring a manager of Brendan's calibre to Leicester City and I look forward to seeing what he, our talented, young squad, and our dedicated, skilled team of staff can achieve together," vice-chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha said.

"As projects, including the development of our new training ground and the proposed expansion of King Power Stadium continue to take shape, and as a young squad of great potential begins to mature, Brendan and his colleagues arrive at an exciting time for Leicester City.

"We're continuing to grow as a club and I am anticipating that Brendan's coaching methods, knowledge, and experience can enhance our journey."

Celtic "reluctantly" granted Rodgers permission to speak with Leicester earlier on Tuesday. Former Bhoys manager Neil Lennon is now expected to fill in for the remainder of the season.

Celtic hold an eight-point lead atop the Scottish Premiership and remain in the hunt for a third straight domestic treble.