Liverpool legend John Barnes has backed Brendan Rodgers' move to Celtic.

The former Liverpool manager has signed a 12-month rolling contract after agreeing to replace Ronny Deila.

Barnes told Press Association Sport: "I think it is a fantastic appointment for Celtic and I think he'll do a great job.

"I was actually with Brendan over in Dubai about a month ago and he was telling me he was looking forward to getting back in.

"Celtic wasn't on the horizon at that point and he didn't mention any clubs but I could tell he was keen to get started.

"He still has the hunger and the appetite so it's great for both parties as far as I can see.

"He will not view it as a step down, despite what others will think. Celtic is a huge club. They are guaranteed European football but it will be much tougher going forward now that Rangers are back up.

"However, they are in the Champions League and I'm sure Brendan would want to pit his wits against the big sides there.

"The way he plays football, the fans can expect a very exciting brand of football. They can look forward to a great spectacle because he does like to play attacking football. In terms of playing the Celtic way, they couldn't pick a better man for the job."