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Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers relaxed over Patrick Roberts club v country discussion

Celtic's Patrick Roberts at full time against Ross County
Image: Patrick Roberts is due to play in the Scottish Cup final at the same time England U20s are involved in their World Cup

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers says “there will be a discussion” with England over Patrick Roberts' possible participation in the U20 World Cup.

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Celtic made it two Old Firm wins in four days, as their under 20s beat Rangers 3-0 to lift the Scottish Youth Cup at Hampden

Roberts, on a season-long loan from Manchester City, is a crucial part of England's U20 squad who will be competing in the South Korea tournament.

However, that clashes with the Scottish Cup final at Hampden Park on May 27, where Celtic will look to complete the domestic treble when they take on Aberdeen.

There has been some suggestion England will have the final say on whether Roberts participates in the U20 World Cup or is allowed to complete his season in Scotland, although Rodgers is keen to stress there will be amicable discussions on the subject, with the interests of the player at the forefront of those.

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"England will announce their squad in May and I am sure there will be a discussion," he said.

"We want him to be here so we will see how that goes over the coming weeks. It will be a sensible claim.

"He is here on loan, but we respect the people at England, I know them well and we will have a conversation about it and hopefully it will fulfill the needs of both parties.

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"Pat knows there is a World Cup opportunity there for him, he has worked hard to be there.

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers shakes the hand of Patrick Roberts
Image: Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers says he will put Roberts' interests first

"It is unfair to put the boy in that situation really. He has played a big part in what we have been doing.

"We will come together and hopefully he will be here.

"I am sure between Manchester City, England and ourselves we will come up with the best solution and that is ultimately what it is about, the best interests of Pat."

Watch Rangers v Celtic in the Scottish Premiership. Coverage begins on Sky Sports 1HD and Sky Sports 5 HD at 11:30am.

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