Simon Jordan reckons Rangers have set model Brendan Rodgers has to chase as he lays out rules of Celtic return

Former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan believes Rangers have become the European standard bearers Celtic have to emulate back under Brendan Rodgers' watch.

The broadcaster reckons the Ibrox side's thrilling run to the Europa League Final is what the Irishman has to emulate upon his blockbuster return to the Parkhead dugout. The 50-year-old namechecked West Ham's Europa Conference League triumph as an achievement teams like Celtic must strive to match as he aims to make waves in Continental competitions. Rodgers will lead the Parkhead side in the Champions League next season and Jordan reckons Rangers' exploits en route to Seville will register across the city.

Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: "Brendan Rodgers going back to an environment will be judged by a set of standards that he set for himself. Which means he was got to achieve what he achieved before and, ultimately, better it, for it to be viewed as a successful situation for Celtic.

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"And that means, in some respects, if they can't punch above their weight, and let's be clear, above their weight in the Champions League, and they need to punch their weight in the Europa League if they drop out from the Champions League. Because a model has been set by Rangers. And that will be something the Scottish fans will be looking it and saying 'okay, if you do come out of the Champions League and find yourself in the Europa League, we expect contributions in there'."

Jordan has previously raised doubts over Rodgers' ranking as one of the elite coaches of his generation and once again offered up caveats against the success the Irishman has enjoyed during a