Sources: Celtic to sound out O'Neill over manager job in new twist

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Published on:

09 Mar 2021, 1:30 am

Celtic will sound out Martin O'Neill for his views as they step up their search for a new manager, Football Insider understands.

The 69-year-old former Hoops manager is held in high regard by the club where he holds legendary status for his dugout achievements.

A Celtic source has told Football Insider the club are keen for O'Neill's opinion on what will be a critical appointment following Rangers' resurgence.

Intriguingly, the Celtic board put out feelers to O'Neill last December to ascertain his interest in taking over from Neil Lennon for the rest of the season.

The Northern Irishman rejected their overtures as he was not interested at the time on a return to the club he managed with huge success for five years until his 2005 departure.

But O'Neill still takes a great interest in Celtic's affairs and watches the team closely.

He won three league titles, three Scottish Cups and a League Cup at Celtic and also steered the club to their third-ever European final, which they lost to Porto in 2003.

It is unlikely he could be persuaded to return to the dugout again, especially with the squad set for a major summer overhaul.

Celtic are keen on hiring a manager with a proven track record in developing and improving players on the training ground, especially young talent.

Lennon resigned as Celtic manager two weeks ago before he was sacked by the club.

In other news, Celtic are closing in on a landmark six-figure signing after offer submitted for England-based ace.

Celtic