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CELTIC will face competition from Hull City and Aston Villa if Brendan Rodgers decides to pursue a long-term interest in Scotland strike star Steven Fletcher .



Sunderland last night confirmed that Fletcher, who had been on loan at Marseille for the second half of last season, will not have his contract renewed and the 29-year-old is now a free agent.



Celtic could have signed Fletcher from Hibs in 2009 but baulked at the £3m transfer fee. But they came close to landing the striker during Neil Lennon’s tenure, with wages proved to be the stumbling block. Now new boss Rodgers, who is looking to bolster his strike options, must decide whether the former Hibs, Burnley and Wolves attacker is the type of attacker he needs.



If so, he will face opposition from newly promoted Hull and relegated Villa, both of whom could top the wages Celtic would be able to offer.

However, the prospect of winning trophies and having a crack at the Champions League with Rodgers may prove more appealing.While on Scotland duty last week, Fletcher admitted he was flattered by Celtic’s reported interest.He said: “It’s flattering for me to be linked with Celtic but it’s never happened. I’d love to sit and tell you where I was going because it would be better for me.

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“I’ve been away with Scotland and working hard so I’ve not been aware of what’s been going on. But when I get back home and touch base hopefully I’ll have a few options.



“I’ve not even thought about my future. I’ve not had much contact with anyone yet.



“I’ll sit down and think about it after this week and start picking up my phone when I go off on holiday.

(Image: PA)

“My wife will be worse than me wondering where we’re going. I’m quite laid back, I’m used to moving around — but she isn’t.”Commenting on Rodgers’ appointment, boyhood Celtic fan Fletcher added: “It’s a great appointment, a great step forward for Celtic.“The fans want Champions League football and to do well in it — and with him it’s a step in the right direction.”