Celtic pointed towards 'outstanding' next manager candidate as Dermot Desmond connection plays key role

A former Tottenham and Leeds United star has been backed as an ideal next Celtic manager - and he has a Dermot Desmond connection on his side.

The Hoops are being linked to several gaffers with Martin O’Neill’s boss role coming to an end next month, with Robbie Keane’s name one of the most notable, currently at Hungarian side Ferencvaros. He had an impressive playing career with Leeds United, Tottenham, Liverpool, Inter Milan and more, featuring on loan at Celtic after major shareholder Desmond helped push the boat out to loan in his fellow Irishman.

Aiden McGeady played with Keane at international level and the Celtic hero reckons Keane’s time with Ferencvaros and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel gears him up for the Parkhead job. Of the names mentioned, the ex-Celtic and Republic of Ireland winger reckons he’s the go-to name right now.

Robbie Keane to Celtic assessed

McGeady said on Go Radio: “He's been the name that's been the strongest and the loudest. But I think, look at what you was being said about the next manager coming in and having that kind of... if it's going to be Martin O'Neill or that kind of advisor or someone to help. I think that's quite important, especially the way that Celtic have been this season. I think there's obviously been a big disconnect between the fans, and the board and the club.

“Robbie Keane seems to be, as I said, the loudest bit. Regardless of the Irish connection, if you actually look at his record, he's won a trophy every season he's been a manager. He's managed in two different countries. I think Ferencvaros got to the last 16, Europa League as well last season. He's been very, very successful in a short space of time. I you're looking at candidates based on what they've done so far in their CV, I think he is an outstanding candidate. He always dreamed of playing for Celtic. He said that about 20 years ago!”

Ex Rangers, Sunderland and Hearts striker Kevin Kyle was also on the panel, and reckons the Desmond factor will be key. He said: “I would agree with Aiden because when appointing somebody, you have to look at all aspects of that person.

What part will Dermot Desmond play in next Celtic manager?

“Firstly, he played for Celtic, he understands it. I'm pretty sure being Southern Irish at some point, he probably followed Celtic as a kid growing up or whatever. I know he went and played with Wolves, Tottenham etc, and had an unbelievable career.

“He’s had that dream of playing for Celtic then he got to play for Celtic. My point is that he gets Celtic. Then he’s went away and learned his trade. He didn't get a job in England or Scotland when he finished his football. He took that opportunity to go abroad and broaden his own ambitions and horizons.

“Like Aiden says, he’s won a trophy, I think that's important as a Celtic manager. You have to understand that Celtic fans expect to win trophies season in, season out. That's important. There's the connection with Dermot Desmond. That will be a factor as well, but the reality is every time I hear Robbie Keane speak, he sounded like the type of manager I’d like to play under. I think Robbie Keane would be a great fit and I think most Celtic fans would be onboard with that.”

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