Rodgers attempts to re-build career at Northampton with Arsenal departure looming

Official confirmation of Paul Rodgers’ departure from Arsenal is expected within the next 48 hours, and the defender has acted swiftly in an attempt to prepare for life after London Colney.

Rodgers, who has a solitary appearance for the first-team to his name, is one of several youngsters who are expected to be released by the club when their contracts officially expire tomorrow; with Amaury Bischoff, Rene Steer, Abu Ogogo and James Dunne the others.

Rodgers spent the majority of the second half of last season on loan at Northampton Town and he has rejoined the Cobblers for pre-season training with the aim of earning a professional contract there. Northampton manager Stuart Gray is on the lookout for a new right-back following the departure of former Gunner Jason Crowe, and said
‘I think Paul came on in leaps and bounds in his time with us last season and I am pleased he is coming back to train with us.’

Gray also went on to outline the qualities he feels Rodgers brings to the side,  ‘We need pace in the side and Paul brings that and we will have a look at him again over the next few weeks. I thought he helped set our tempo in the games against Orient and Scunthorpe when he was one of our better players.

‘He went through the pain barrier for us in those games and he gave us energy and verve. He was injured in those games and we want to have a look at him over the next few weeks.’

Rodgers signed scholarship terms with Arsenal in the summer of 2006 before turning professional a year later.