Brendan Rodgers' first Celtic interview IN FULL as returning boss talks transfer structure and Champions League

The swanky new Celtic training top, the big smile and the Northern Irish lift that could sweet talk the birds out of the trees.

Brendan Rodgers is back at Celtic Park – and it’s like he’s never been away. Meet the new boss, he’s a lot like one of the old ones. Celtic fans are ready to write off Rodgers’ shock departure in 2019 as a mere blip and look forward to a new era under the 50-year-old.

The gaffer will meet the punters at Parkhead tomorrow as well as facing the media for the first time since his sensational return was announced. But on Thursday he sat down with club media to give his state of the nation address and give fans an appetiser of what’s to come as he prepares to pick up where he left off - much to the Green Brigade's annoyance - three-and-a-half years ago.

Here's every word of his first Celtic interview.

“I’m very proud and obviously really happy to be here. Obviously a massive thank you to Dermot (Desmond) and the board for taking me back. Everything just feels so natural and I’m really pleased.

“There were two factors. The first thing was that, when I came in the first time, and now, I’m here to win.

“The nostalgia is great but it’s the past. Hopefully from that period what we achieved is set in concrete and it will always be there. But I’m here again to win and look forward and continue with that mentality and look to see if we can do something in Europe.

“There’s no doubt that the happiness of being here played a huge part both professionally and personally. From a football perspective we achieved and completed history while I was here. The aim will be to continue with that mentality going forward.

“Also outside of the football, my family and everyone associated with me had great happiness in