DUNDEE’S new signing Steven Caulker has revealed he turned down a move to Celtic and a reunion with Brendan Rodgers last year.
The 26-year-old centre-half signed an 18-month deal with the Dens Park outfit yesterday following his departure from Queens Park Rangers by mutual consent last month.
The once-capped England international was linked with a move to Parkhead which would have seen him once again work under his former Swansea gaffer Rodgers. However, Caulker, who has suffered with drinking and gambling addictions, chose to remain with the Loftus Road side.
He said: “It came close. I decided in the end to stay in London. I was early on in my recovery and I felt my support network was best in London.
“I opted out of Scotland at that moment, but I’m pleased to be up here now and it’s good to see Brendan doing really well there again.”
The ex-Spurs and Liverpool defender added: “It’s been an up and down six weeks and I’ve come close a few times.
“But I wanted to wait for the right manager and the right environment and I think I’ve found that here.”I’m pleased I was patient and I’m excited for the challenge ahead.”
