Former Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has urged the club to retain John Kennedy this summer, whether as manager or as an assistant to a new face.

Kennedy was placed in interim charge after Neil Lennon resigned with the Hoops' title defence in tatters.

He has only taken charge of two games so far, overseeing a 1-0 win at home to Aberdeen before a goalless draw away to Dundee United.

This weekend, he will hope to guide Celtic to a morale-boosting victory in the Old Firm derby, significantly boosting his chances of a permanent role in the process.

Rodgers full of praise after time with Kennedy

Kennedy worked under Rodgers as first team coach during the Northern Irishman's successful three-year reign in Glasgow. In that time, Celtic won two domestic trebles and completed a historic unbeaten season in 2016/17.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Rodgers expressed his confidence that Kennedy has the credentials for the long-term manager's position.

"In my time there, he was an outstanding coach," the Leicester City manager said.

"He's worked at every level of the club so he knows the club inside out. He played for the club. He's worked in scouting so he understands that. He's worked in coaching. He's worked at the top end of the academy teams and he's worked with the first team.

"One thing is for sure, John being in the club is very important. If he didn't get the job and another manager went in there, to have John Kennedy by your side is a great move."

Were he to be overlooked by Celtic, Rodgers assured Kennedy that  other opportunities would almost certainly present themselves.

"I've got absolutely no question, whether with Celtic or another club, that he will go on and manage one day," the 48-year-old said.

Transfer Tavern verdict

It remains too early to cast judgement on Kennedy, but if he can inspire Celtic to an Old Firm victory, oversee a respectable end to their league campaign and potentially win the Scottish League Cup, he would have to be a contender to get the job permanently.

If Celtic are eyeing a big-name appointment, though, they should not let the composition of the backroom team become a stumbling block in negotiations.

In other news, Celtic are set to lose this player.