Brendan Rodgers will 'fight to the very end' to keep Celtic star in last-chance saloon as he makes final plea to exit-bound ace

Brendan Rodgers have vowed to fight until the “very end” to keep hold of outgoing Celtic star Greg Taylor beyond this summer - but admits the defender has “earned the right” to make his own decision over his future.

The Scotland international - out of contract and yet to agree a new deal with the Parkhead club - showcased what the champions could potentially be losing with a performance full of attacking intent and creativity in the 5-1 demolition over his former club, Kilmarnock.

With fan favourite Kieran Tierney signing a pre-contract agreement to return to Parkhead from English Premier League giants Arsenal in January and talks due to commence with Crystal Palace ace Jeffrey Schlupp about turning his loan move into a permanent one, Taylor could head for the exit door in search of regular game-time elsewhere.

Croatia is a possible destination for the 27-year-old with Dinamo Zagreb ‘confident’ of signing the player once his contract expires, while Taylor also reportedly has options in the MLS and has even been touted for a move across the city to arch rivals Rangers by several pundits.

Speaking on Sky Sports post-match after his side’s thumping victory, Rodgers admitted: “I'll always fight to the very end for a player. Greg's earned the right to make the decision he wants.

“You see in the performance today how important someone in that role is, he plays like a midfield player for us. We'll see what happens at the end of the season.”

Celtic could be crowned four-in-a-row champions tomorrow if nearest challengers Rangers slip up against Aberdeen. On whether he will be keeping a close eye on the Pittodrie clash, Rodgers stated: “Whatever happens happens. It's about ourselves.

“We wanted today to be the coronation, but we've given ourselves a brilliant opportunity now. We'll see what the split brings and we'll look to win our next game.”

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