Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is apparently looking at his former captain at Leicester City, Jonny Evans. Evans served under the Irishman at the King Power Stadium during his tenure at the English Premier League side. The big defender was plagued by injuries last season and it affected the team unquestionably.
Jamie Vardy celebrates with Jonny Evans and Luke Thomas of Leicester City after scoring their team’s third goal during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Leicester City and Newport County at The King Power Stadium on November 08, 2022 (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
At 35-years-old, Evans is a very seasoned campaigner and has proven his worth in the English top flight for several years now. Originally starting at Manchester United, the Irishman has been to West Brom and Leicester City throughout his career and has done very well no matter where he has ended up.
The Liverpool Echo have reported that Rodgers is very keen to link-up with his former enforcer in England and could look to swoop for him as a free agent. However, recently relegated Leicester City are said to be wanting to offer the player new terms as they seek promotion once again to the riches of the Premier League.
Arsenal’s Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus (L) vies with Leicester City’s Northern Irish defender Jonny Evans (R) during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Leicester City at the Emirates Stadium in London on August 13, 2022.(Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
The new Hoops boss has been linked with a few of his former players’ but nothing has yet to materialise in this respect. Defence is an area Celtic’s recruitment team are said to be looking into strengthening, made particularly acute with the injury news of Alistair Johnston and Cameron Carter-Vickers still recovering from his knee surgery.
Whether or not Rodgers will indeed make a move for Evans or any of his former cohorts is still up for debate. Having said that, Evans would definitely provide adequate cover over the short-term for the Scottish Premiership. Although it is very doubtful as to his suitability to the UEFA Champions League group stages level these days.
Interesting rumour, nonetheless.
Paul Gillespie
