There is no real need to stress on Cameron Carter-Vickers' importance to Celtic. He is the best that the Hoops have in defence and that has been the case for quite some time. Unfortunately, the American has dealt with quite a few injury problems over the years and the team is significantly weaker when he is absent.
Interestingly, Carter-Vickers has not often been linked with a move away from Celtic despite his excellent performances whenever he is available. Of course, that is a relief for the supporters.
The name of Carter-Vickers was recently in the headlines though. The American centre-back was linked with a move to Bayer Leverkusen and hyped up as a January transfer target for Xabi Alonso.
Bayer Leverkusen are the reigning Bundesliga champions and most footballers would find the opportunity to work with Alonso hard to turn down. Naturally, Celtic fans were left worried about Carter-Vickers and his future at Parkhead.
Celtic boss gives blunt Cameron Carter-Vickers to Bayer Leverkusen reply
Fortunately, it looks like Rodgers is not particularly worried about the speculation surrounding Carter-Vickers. As reported by The Celtic Way, the manager said when asked about the stories linking Leverkusen with the American defender:
"Listen, I haven't seen anything of that, to be honest. I suspect there will be interest in all our players and lots of gossip and speculation going about. But no, I think our idea is to improve our squad."
That sounds like a positive update from Rodgers. While he did not rule anything out, he did not seem particularly interested in the Carter-Vickers to Bayer Leverkusen rumours either, which seems to suggest that there is not much in it as things stand.
Of course, things can change quickly in football. That being said, it would come as a major surprise if the American left the club in the middle of the season. It has been suggested that he is focused on the task at hand at Celtic is focusing on helping the Hoops win another league title. That is something he has managed throughout his time in Glasgow.