Since joining the Hoops in January, the 23-year-old striker for Norwich City has scored five goals in six Premiership appearances. The green-and-white supporters were surprised by his appearance at first, but the Republic of Ireland international scored vital goals away to Hibs and Motherwell to lead the champions to victory all by himself.
Idah is under contract at Carrow Road for another four years and Rodgers confirmed there is no option to buy this summer in the current loan agreement. Celts could still attempt to land the frontman on a permanent deal but the Canaries will likely demand a sizeable transfer fee.
“I’m excited to work with him,” stated Rodgers. He is driven to get better and loves the pressure this place brings. So at the conclusion of the season, we’ll evaluate it. Not everything is under our control.
In the meantime, Rodgers has stated that, given Liel Abada’s unexpected departure, he would not hesitate to sign Israeli players for Celtic.
The week following Abada’s move to Charlotte FC, which marked the end of his two and a half years in Glasgow, the Parkhead manager voiced his regret. With only 11 appearances due to injury and off-field problems, the winger had a challenging season.
But soon after making his comeback, Rodgers admitted the 22-year-old wasn’t in the right frame of mind to play due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, with Israel going to war in Palestine and Hoops fans showing their strong support for the latter.
Despite being given a standing ovation by the green-and-white faithful on his injury return against Rangers in December, Abada had come under huge pressure from his homeland to quit Celtic and this week sealed a £10million exit to the MLS. However, Rodgers has made it clear the saga won’t stop him from bringing Israeli players to Celtic Park.
He said: “No, because I just want good players. It doesn’t matter where they are from. We want good players here, whatever the nationality or creed. We want players who come here, fit into the culture and develop. This is an incredible club to come to, where you learn how to be a winner and to deal with pressure and expectation.
“With a player from any nationality, they have to fit the culture and manner that we want to work in. But it certainly wouldn’t stop me, no.”
