BRENDAN RODGERS has revealed he has spoken to former target John McGinn who joined Aston Villa in midweek for £2.75million.
It looked as though the Scotland international midfielder was heading for the champions after a summer transfer saga with Hibs.
Following three failed bids, the Hoops put in an offer that was matched by the Midlands outfit and unexpectedly the player was spirited out of Edinburgh for the Championship.
McGinn realises he has a better chance of regular game time at Villa than at the Hoops where Rodgers has the riches of skipper Scott Brown, Olivier Ntcham, Callum McGregor, Tom Rogic and suchlike from which to pick.
But the Irishman still saw the hard-working ex-St Mirren prospect as being a valuable addition to his squad.
He said: “It’s gone, so we move on. I spoke to John at length on Wednesday just to wish him all the very best.
“It’s a great move for him. There’s disappointment for us – especially when you are a lifelong Celtic supporter.
“But he is joining another illustrious club with a great history, a good boss and has the chance to play in England.
“He has developed a lot in last couple of years. He is a prime age at 23 and I wish him all the very best.”
Rodgers added: “What we need in the squad in terms of real genuine quality positioning will cost you money.
“It doesn’t guarantee anything. What you would hope is that it would give you a greater opportunity.
“It doesn’t really change. The game is about quality and quality players.
“We have some outstanding players here in terms of quality and talents.
“We’re trying to grow and cultivate the squad to be the best that it can be and for that you can’t stand still.
“You have to keep looking to develop and improve it even if you think you are doing okay. That’s constant.”
