It wasn’t only the fans who were left raging over his February 2019 exit for Leicester City
Mikael Lustig is a huge fan of Brendan Rodgers.
To the point that he hailed the present Celtic boss as the “best coach” he’s ever worked with.
However, the emotions around his exit the first time around for Leicester City hit the Parkhead faithful hard – but it wasn’t just in the stands emotions ran high.
The Swede admitted he was angry over his February exit back in 2019 and didn’t approve of his decision – with Rodgers well aware over his feelings.
Fast forward to 2023 and Rodgers was back for a second stint in the dugout after Ange Postecoglou’s exit for Tottenham.
And Lustig admits he was the FIRST to say yes to the appointment – knowing first hand just how good the 52-year-old is.
At the time of Rodgers’ departure, Lustig explained: “I only regret that he left the way he did. When you say you are a fan of Celtic, you do not quit the club in February. I do not approve of his choice, and he knows it.
Looking back on the event, he told the Herald: “I’m an emotional man. When he left in February, I was angry. I wasn’t ready for it.
“I always want what’s best for Celtic. When Brendan came back, I was the first to say yes. He’s a brilliant manager and I hope he brings even more success.
“He’s probably the best coach I’ve ever worked under. Just a top, top professional. I was really happy to play under him. Tactically he is the best, a true perfectionist.”
Lustig was a real fans’ favourite in his full-back role and he has offered advice to Colby Donovan.
Alistair Johnston is the No1 pick for Rodgers at right-back but with back-up Anthony Ralston also struggling in recent weeks, it has handed the 19-year-old invaluable first team minutes and experience.
His advice for the youngster as he breaks through? Well, he doesn’t need to look too far at all.
He said: “I heard a lot of good things about this kid as well. I can see a little bit of myself in him as well.
“He’s quite the big boy. Hopefully, we can see him in many games this season. My advice to him would probably be to tell him to talk with Kieran [Tierney] about that because he’s done that already.
“When KT made his first training, he just properly tackled people. It didn’t matter if it was Scott Brown or anyone else. He was just relentless. That would probably be my best advice. Just talk to Kieran and ask him how he felt.”
Lustig still keeps a keen eye on his former club and watches from afar in Sweden. He is still in touch with some of the players he played alongside and staff members.
He added: “I might not talk much to the players anymore about Celtic, but I keep in touch with some staff as well as James [Forrest] and Cal. I still care deeply.”
