Brendan Rodgers at Celtic transfer crossroads as striker search poses permanent or 'top class' loan conundrum

Brendan Rodgers insists he won’t stand in Harry Kewell’s way if the Aussie fancies another crack at management.

The Celtic coach has been targeted by former boss Ange Postecoglou’s old club Yokohama F Marinos as a replacement for departed Kevin Muscat who is taking a break from the game. Kewell has other hot-seat options but is keen to speak to the Japanese big guns and could seal a move in the early part of next week.

Rodgers admitted it would be a blow to lose one of his prized lieutenants – but he would not hold him back if the Liverpool legend wants to branch out on his own. Kewell had spells in charge of Oldham, Barnet and Crawley Town in England and has confessed he has long-term ambitions to be a No.1 again. Rodgers – who has sent defender Cameron Carter-Vickers for a scan after a hamstring scare against Hibs – said: “There’s an interest in Harry from a couple of clubs. I spoke to him after the game the other night.

“It’s great. I always like to have talented people around me and when you have talented people, there’s always a chance they will get the opportunity to move. I’ve always thought if a move can really help a player or coach in their career and their families position in life, they need to explore it.

“There’s nothing concrete at the moment but we will see how it develops in the coming days. Harry has done it before so he’s not new to it. He knows the pressures of being the No.1.”

Kewell was snapped up by former gaffer Postecoglou but remained part of the Rodgers coaching team following the Irishman’s return in the summer. The boss said: “Harry, and all the guys, have been outstanding since I came in. He’s a very conscientious guy. He was a top player and he made a big commitment coming to Celtic. He