Liverpool have stepped up their interest in Celtic midfielder Efe Ambrose after the Nigerian put on an impressive show in the recently concluded African Cup of Nations.
Efe Ambrose
Ambrose was among the stars in Nigeria’s famous win over Burkina Faso in the finals of Africa’s biggest footballing competition, thus attracting interest from clubs across Europe. The Metro reports that Liverpool scouts stationed in Africa were extremely impressed by his performance in the entire tournament and have brought in good remarks for manager Brendan Rodgers.
The 24-year-old may end up being a bargain buy for the Reds, with Celtic expected to let him go for as low as ?6m in the summer. However, any move would be decided subject to his performances for Celtic for the remainder of the season. The Scottish club have confirmed interest from other clubs but manager Niel Lennon has revealed that there has been no formal contact with the club over the player’s transfer.
Ambrose has made 16 appearances in the league this season for Celtic, scoring three goals and was also a stand out performer in Celtic’s historic win over Barcelona in the group stages of the Champions League. The midfielder is in great form after his return from the African Cup of Nations, scoring in consecutive matches in the League for the Scottish giants. Liverpool have also been linked with a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Arda Turan, but should the Reds find it difficult to match the ?19m fee as quoted by the Spanish giants, Ambrose will be a cheaper replacement for the same.
Kuyt on Rodgers
Former Liverpool man Dirk Kuyt has showered praise on new manager Brendan Rodgers and has urged Liverpool fans to keep patience as he believes that the manager has it in him to take the Reds back to their glory days. The Dutchman transferred from Anfield at the end of last season to Fenerbahce having spent six seasons at the club, scoring 71 goals in as many as 285 appearances.
“Brendan Rodgers was actually quite good to me because he was one of the first people to ring me and wish me all the best with my career. I think he is a very good manager and it is difficult sometimes but I think if they give him the time he can build a good team. They have very good games with some disappointing results. What I can make of it from here is that they are building a team and when you are doing that there can be ups and downs,” he told the BBC..
