A whirlwind 24 hours for the Hoops
Image by Robert Katzki via Unsplash
By Louisa Gavin
Monday evening saw the resignation of Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers. It came as a shock to the Celtic supporters, even though the team haven't been performing to their usual standards this season so far.
Across his two spells at Parkhead, Brendan Rodgers lifted 11 trophies from a possible 13. A successful record for the Northern Irishman.
A culmination of disappointing results for the Hoops have led to Rodgers's departure, most recently last weekend's 3-1 loss at the hands of league leaders Hearts.
Brendan Rodgers after a UEFA Champions League tie against Lazio in October 2023 via Getty Images
Taking the reins on an interim basis is the legendary former Celtic manager, Martin O’Neill. An astonishing return to Glasgow for the 73-year-old, 20 years after he left his role as head coach.
O’Neill spoke to the media at Celtic Park this afternoon, he said: “I'm really excited. There’s nervous excitement about it and I obviously want to try and do as well as I can. I am looking forward to it.”
Taking their seat in the dugout alongside Martin O’Neill is assistant manager and former Celtic player Shaun Maloney. He is joined by Mark Foderingham, Gavin Strachan and Stevie Woods.
O’Neill and his staff must hit the ground running at Celtic Park. They only arrived on Tuesday afternoon and face Falkirk at home on Wednesday night. It is sure to be a hero's welcome for Martin as he returns to Parkhead.
In terms of his first game on Wednesday, O’Neill is up against it from the beginning. With a growing injury list, team morale taking a hit after some underwhelming performances and backlash from the supporters. The only thing that matters for the Bhoys’ is that they secure a positive result up against an in-form Falkirk side.
Celtic interim management team, Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney being unveiled via Getty Images
The Celtic board seem to be moving fast; names are already being thrown around as to who could be the nest permanent manager of Celtic Football Club. The two most notable candidates are Ange Postecoglou and Kieran McKenna.
The Celtic support are wildly familiar with Postecoglou. He was a hero to many as Celtic manager but certainly did not find his feet in the English Premier League. On the other hand, Kieran McKenna is currently the manager of English Championship side Ipswich Town. The 39-year-old achieved back-to-back promotions with Ipswich and has a promising managerial side that would align with the style of Celtic.