Fellow-Northern Irishman Shiels is convinced Rodgers has the respect of the entire nation and will bring qualities to bridge the divide.
He said: “I fully expect Linfield to get through to play Celtic.
“But I think that Brendan is respected and admired by all sides of the community. There is that affable quality about him.
“I’m sure people admire and respect what he’s achieved in the game, especially for a fella from Carnlough.
“Brendan is held in high esteem by both sides. It would be good that he was there because of his background.
“The location of Windsor Park is in the heart of Union territory.
“If it’s an evening kick-off, and it will surely go ahead earlier on July 11, then I would say there was more jeopardy about the game in terms of potential trouble.
“There will be a massive security force to police the game.”
