NafisaCeltic principal shareholder Dermot Desmond is ‘set to meet’ next manager candidates Martin O’Neill and Robbie Keane later this week as the club move closer to determining who will occupy the Parkhead hot seat next season.
Current boss O’Neill was installed in the role in January with the expectation that a permanent successor would be identified in the summer.
However, as the 74-year-old guided the side to a domestic double despite a turbulent season both on and off the pitch, the club are now considering extending his tenure. If the experienced manager is not to continue in charge for another year, an alternative position behind the scenes could also be an option.
O’Neill’s former Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane has emerged as one of the leading contenders to succeed his ex-teammate at Celtic.
The 45-year-old stepped down from his role as Ferencvaros manager at the end of the campaign after narrowly missing out on the league title and is now firmly in the running for the Parkhead job.
With friction between supporters and the board still present despite Celtic’s recent achievements, it is a decision Desmond and the hierarchy will be under pressure to get right.
Desmond ‘set to meet’ O’Neill and Keane:
According to Sky Sports, Desmond will conduct discussions with both candidates during the week. They state: “Celtic principal shareholder Dermot Desmond is due to meet with Martin O’Neill and Robbie Keane this week over the managerial vacancy.”
The same report adds that the club’s leadership are ‘receptive’ to the idea of O’Neill remaining if he chooses, although the arrangement would need to be mutually agreeable.
They would prefer the five-time Scottish top-flight winner to remain at Celtic in some capacity. Keane’s availability as a free agent also strengthens his candidacy.
No reference was made to Portugal boss Roberto Martinez, who had also been linked with the role. The Spaniard has previously worked alongside Celtic coach Shaun Maloney as both player and staff member, giving him an obvious connection to the club. However, with his potential World Cup involvement stretching into mid-July, Celtic may not be in a position to wait.
O’Neill on extension potential:
O’Neill has delivered mixed signals regarding his own future, often stating that the decision rests entirely with the club and that his personal view is secondary. After sealing the league title, when asked directly about the possibility of staying on, the former Aston Villa and Sunderland manager said: “I genuinely don’t know.
“Has anybody talked to me? No, but I wasn’t expecting that. I’m pretty old so it does take it out of you. I’m a bit-part in proceedings. They see me every day the players, this old man, and think ‘what’s he doing here?’ This is the most special place on earth. When there is absolute unison in this stadium, it is a sight to behold. Obviously the players have been magnificent, epitomised by the captain, but we could not have won it without [the fans]. I’m delighted for them.”
Nafisa
