Next Celtic manager contender addresses Parkhead 'noise' head on and there's something that is unavoidable
There have been several names linked with the vacancy of Celtic manager.
A possible next Celtic manager contender has addressed his future as his side threatens to enter the Premiership title race.
Motherwell have been one of the surprise packages of an enthralling 2025/26 Premiership season, sitting fourth and 10 points off leaders Hearts, with a game in hand. Amid an attractive and steely brand of football that’s spawned just three league losses all campaign, many have tipped Askou for a major move, including as the next Celtic manager.
Martin O’Neill is only in charge until the end of the season and a more permanent appointment will be needed. Askou has created a defence the envy of many with an attack minded side and transformed several players into having the best terms of their careers to date - including Parkhead defender Stephen Welsh who is on loan at Fir Park.
Will Motherwell boss be next Celtic manager?
Several of his players are linked with moves away this summer but Askou has now addressed his own future amid the Celtic chatter. His side face Dundee United this weekend and a win on home soil - where they have lost once in the Premiership - would see them go just a point behind the current champions in third.
Askou admits talk of his future goes with the territory of how much his Motherwell side have achieved but wouldn’t be drawn on what happens beyond the summer. He said: “I don’t know if it’s disrespectful, but I don’t think it is anything you can avoid.
“It’s not something I need to comment on or anything because it’s something that we cannot stop. There is a little bit of noise and speculation about stuff, but the good thing is that I’m here, I’m really pleased with that. Celtic have a job to do as well. That’s why I don’t feel any need to comment on these things. Everyone needs their peace and quiet to finish the season strongly.
Are Motherwell in the Premiership title race?
“I know there’s been a lot of talk about us being in a title race now. In terms of being in a race, racing with other clubs, there need to be some conditions that are more or less the same. And we just compete in a totally different league, even though we’re in the same football league.
“There are some circumstances that the other teams above us have in their hands that we don’t have, and that’s why it’s irrelevant for us to discuss that question or to approach it internally or externally.
“What’s important is that we’re developing and we’re growing as a club, and that we are aware of where we need to grow as a club. There are so many things we need to improve and lift in order for us to actually answer that question with a yes. But if you ask me or us whether we think we can win the next game, then we are really positive that we can. If you ask us if we can beat any team in this league on the day, then we will say the same.”
The Scottish Football Social Club is presented by BetSBK.com | 18+ | Gamble Responsibly