Brendan Rodgers: Celtic would be ready for the challenge of Kevin Muscat's Rangers

Brendan Rodgers believes the likely appointment of Kevin Muscat as Rangers head coach would bring a fresh challenge but one that his Celtic side would be ready to meet.

The Ibrox side are closing in on a deal to appoint Muscat as Russell Martin’s successor after advanced talks, meaning a new rival across the city for Rodgers.

The Celtic boss revealed that he had met the Australian in the past, and noted his achievements at Melbourne Victory, Yokohama F Marinos and Shanghai Port.

He said that a new appointment would bring a different challenge for his side but one that he welcomed.

“I think every team that changes manager, you always accept and take on the challenge of new ideas and that freshness they may bring,” Rodgers said.

“I don’t know Kevin that well but I came across him a few times when I was at Liverpool.

“He came in to training when I was manager there and spent some time with him there. And of course when we travelled over to Australia with Liverpool I met him and Ange (Postecoglou) there.

“I don’t know him that well but he’s done a really good job with the teams he has been at in Asia and if he’s to be the new manager coming in, that’ll be a new challenge.

“For us, we’ll be ready for it.”

The Northern Irishman also reflected on Martin’s short spell in charge at Rangers, after the former Southampton boss was sacked with only one win from seven league games.

“Well, I think you’re always disappointed when any manager loses his job and Russell is no different,” Rodgers said.

“It’s a challenge he’ll learn from in his career and he’s got many more years left as a coach and a manager.

“I’ve always said when you manage Celtic or Rangers the pressure really is relentless. You find out things about yourself in this role and this job, and I am sure he will have done that.

“I wish him all the best. He’ll probably have a bit of time out and look to go again and use this experience.”