IT seems like a lifetime ago that Brendan Rodgers was manager of Celtic.
Back in October the Northern Irishman sensationally quit as Hoops boss and was subsequently filleted by majority shareholder Dermot Desmond in an explosive post-exit statement.
Since then Celtic have turned to Martin O’Neill – twice – either side of their failed experiment with Wilfried Nancy.
Rodgers meanwhile has taken up a new post in the Middle East with Saudi Pro League club Al Qadsiah.
He endured a shaky start in Saudi Arabia but would go on to win his next two games in charge, a 3-2 victory over Al-Shabab and a 4-0 defeat of Al-Riyadh.
The 52-year-old has now claimed his biggest scalp yet however – triumphing against Cristiano Ronaldo‘s Al-Nassr.
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One of the most successful clubs in Saudi Arabia, Al-Nassr currently occupy second place in the league in comparison to Al Qadsiah, who were in mid-table prior to Rodgers’ arrival.
With a 2-1 victory tonight however, they have now shot up to fourth.
Rodgers and Ronaldo embraced prior to kick-off, acknowledging their crossed paths in the Premier League.
Al-Nassr’s squad is packed with talent alongside Ronaldo, with Sadio, Kingsley Coman and Joao Felix all on the books.
But they were undone this evening thanks to goals from Julian Quinones and Nahitan Nandez in the 51st and 66th minutes.
Ronaldo himself pulled one back for Al-Nassr in the 81st minute but he was unable to inspire a full comeback.
Rodgers now finds himself working with former Rangers chief executive James Bisgrove at the Saudi club.
Bisgrove said upon the appointment of Rodgers: “This is a landmark moment for the club. The calibre of his experience and track record of winning reflects our ambition and long-term vision to establish Al Qadsiah as one of Asia’s leading clubs.
“Supported by our Board of Directors, an exciting and talented playing squad, world class football staff, and passionate supporters, we’re excited to enter this next phase of the club’s development.
Next up for Rodgers is a clash against relegation battlers Al-Fayha, who can call upon former Rangers striker Fashion Sakala.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
