Sources: Martin O’Neill closer to permanent Celtic job after dramatic development
Celtic are edging closer to appointing Martin O’Neill as Brendan Rodgers’ successor until the end of the season following their Scottish League Cup win over Rangers, sources have told Football Insider.
O’Neill has stepped up as Celtic’s interim manager following the resignation of Brendan Rodgers, with former player Shaun Maloney his assistant.
Celtic beat Rangers 3-1 in a dramatic semi-final tie at Hampden Park to seal progression to the Scottish League cup final where the Hoops will play St Mirren on December 14th.
Sources say O’Neill is increasingly attracted to taking the job until the end of the season, which is now looking more likely, although it will depend on Celtic’s next two results against Midtjylland in the Europa League and Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership.
Martin O’Neill open to being permanent Celtic manager
Football Insider exclusively revealed before the clash with Rangers that O’Neill would be prepared to become Celtic manager until the end of the season.
Victory over their Glasgow rivals has strengthened O’Neill’s position to replace Rodgers, who had clashed with the Celtic board prior to his departure.
O’Neill’s illustrious first spell in charge of the club between 2000 and 2005 means he is deemed a legend among the fan base.
Such an appointment would be liked by the supporters, amid rising tensions at Celtic which has seen fans demonstrate against the owners.
O’Neill’s arrival has not changed the mood entirely though, with protests still taking place outside Celtic Park before his first match against Falkirk.
Celtic still weighing up Kieran McKenna move
Football Insider exclusively revealed that Kieran McKenna would be open to joining Celtic, though the Hoops would have to pay Ipswich £5million in compensation.
Celtic are still debating whether to pay that sum for the former Man United coach who led Ipswich to back-to-back promotions to the Premier League.
McKenna is looking to lead the Tractor Boys back to the Premier League at the first time of asking, with the club currently sat three points off the play-off places.
Ange Postecoglou has also been tilted to return to the club for a second spell in charge following his sacking at Nottingham Forest.
A number of European contenders, like Club Burgge’s Nick Hayen, are also in the frame, with the upcoming November international break likely to be the time Celtic announce a new permanent manager.