Forrest to be given chance by Rodgers

Celtic winger James Forrest is set to be given a chance to prove himself this summer, says Brendan Rodgers.

The new Celtic manager has said that he is willing to give Forrest a chance to impress him before deciding on his immediate future, with Norwich City and QPR both thought to be interested in signing him.

Forrest rejected a new contract at Celtic in February, leading to intense speculation over his future. His current deal expires in December, which would leave him as a free agent and free to sign for any club he chooses.

However, Rodgers is keen to see him over the next few months and see if he is ready to stay at the club.

This could be a big boost for Celtic if they were to keep him, with a possible Champions League campaign coming up.

Speaking to The Daily Mail, Rodgers said this about whether Forrest has a future at Celtic:

Very much so. His contract is up in December, isn’t it? He is one I’m looking forward to analysing. He’s obviously had a run of injuries and maybe some that have held him back, but he’s a big talent. I don’t know him well enough yet but I know he has got talent. From the few days I’ve worked with him, he looks fit and fresh. Hopefully the way I work will suit his aggressive style. You have to be able to defend in it. But you also have to be able to attack and he’s got great attacking ability. So let’s hope he can stay clear of injury and recapture his best form. I have spoken to him but I’m quite relaxed about the situation. The kid has until December, that’s his contract. By that time he’ll have a good way of looking at it.

Forrest will now be looking to make the most of this chance as pre-season starts in the coming weeks. It is, however, unknown as to whether he would still be willing to sign a new deal this summer.