'His contribution was vital' - Celtic confirm departure of key backroom figure as Martin O'Neill speaks out
First-team coach leaves Parkhead after six years to take on fresh challenge at English Championship club
Celtic have confirmed first-team coach Gavin Strachan has left the club to join EFL Championship side West Bromwich Albion after six years on the backroom staff.
The son of former Hoops and Scotland boss Gordon served under multiple managers including Neil Lennon, Ange Postecoglou, Brendan Rodgers and Martin O'Neill during his time at Parkhead.
The 47-year-old will linked up with James Morrison's coaching team at the Hawthorns after the former Scotland international was appointed permanent head coach of the Baggies following his success as caretaker in avoiding relegation last season.
Strachan, who helped Martin O’Neill clinch a league and Scottish Cup double last term, has previous experience of working in England having been an assistant manager at Doncaster Rovers and Peterborough United prior to joining the Scottish champions in June 2020.
Celtic have yet to confirm the make-up of O’Neill’s coaching staff for next season after the 74-year-old veteran committed to another season in charge. However, it’s expected that Shaun Maloney, Mark Fotheringham and Stephen McManus will agree new deals to continue in their respective roles.
Addressing Strachan’s departure, returning boss O’Neill told the club’s media team: “I have only really known Gavin for the past six months, but his contribution was vital to our success and of course I wish him very well for the future in his new role.”
Strachan arrives in the West Midlands alongside assistant head coach Matt Gill and fellow coach Tony McMahon, with Damia Abella departing.
What has West Brom boss, James Morrison said?
Morrison said: “It’s great to have Gilly on board for the coming season because he’s a great coach and I enjoyed working with him last year. The players enjoyed working with him, too, and his efforts were important in us getting over the line.
“I’m also delighted to add Gavin Strachan to the group. Having a new pair of eyes from somebody with Gavin’s experience will help us massively. He has worked alongside some top managers, like Martin O’Neill, Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers, and will no doubt bring fresh ideas with him.
“And I know Tony well from our time together at Middlesbrough. He’s had a variety of jobs in the game - and he knows me better than anyone in football. He’s somebody I trust and whose opinion I’ve always valued.
“Alongside Boaz, they make up what I believe is a strong group around me. They all have different personalities, qualities, and an excellent work ethic, which is important for what we want to do.
“Lastly, I would again like to thank the whole coaching team for their efforts in helping us get over the line last season. That gratitude certainly extends to Damia, who was a pleasure to work with during his whole time here. I’m sure everyone will join me in wishing him the very best of luck in whatever comes next.”