Martin O’Neill gives one word answer as Celtic close in on new permanent manager appointment

Celtic booked their place in the Premier Sports Cup final over the weekend against Rangers and did so in style, with the club now announcing their intentions regarding the future of interim manager Martin O’Neill, who has already said ‘yes’ to the permanent job.

One week is a long time in football, and many Hoops fans could be forgiven for thinking they are stuck in some form of fever dream amid the surprising recent events.

The departure of Brendan Rodgers from Celtic in the lead-up to the pivotal double clash against Falkirk and their city rivals was enough to send people into a frenzy, not to mention the appointment of former manager O’Neill on an interim basis alongside Sean Maloney.

However, the former Republic of Ireland boss has completely changed his side’s outlook, beating Burns by four goals in their opening Scottish Premiership match.

However, the Glasgow derby was always going to be the key test of his managerial abilities, one which the 73-year-old passed with flying colours, after Celtic beat Rangers in emphatic fashion to advance to the Premier League Cup Final.

While Kieran McKenna, Craig Bellamy and Nicky Hayne are all still in contention, Kilrea native O’Neill has made it clear he would be open to a long spell at the helm of the Bhoi team if the opportunity arose.

When pressed on the subject during a live broadcast on Premier Sports, he said: “The very obvious answer would be: Yes (Open for extended stays).

“I would. But I really don’t know what to expect.”

“When I saw the games they had and then the international break, I thought they would have a few weeks to think about it. I haven’t even spoken to him since. In a perverse way, I enjoyed both games – but not too much.”

With O’Neill’s feelings now clear, Celtic’s position on his future came to light in the hours following their much-needed win over Rangers at Hampden.

Celtic are close to appointing Martin O’Neill

According to Football Insider, O’Neill is close to becoming Celtic’s permanent manager after his side were swept by Rangers, which has “boosted” his chances of succeeding Rodgers.

The report indicates that the Irishman is attracted to take charge until the end of the season. However, the Bhoys’ upcoming results against FC Midtjylland and Kilmarnock will determine their next course of action.

Naturally, having led Celtic to seven titles between 2000 and 2005 and a famous run to the UEFA Cup final in Seville, his credentials cannot be questioned. However, the club’s hierarchy are doing their due diligence elsewhere.

St Mirren await the Premier League Cup Final and the lure of another title is too much for O’Neill to ignore.

Celtic could still make a surprise move to appoint a different former coach

Ultimately, Dermont Desmond will have the final say, but an extended spell in charge after a strong start in the Celtic dugout could be a sensible solution at Parkhead if the big favorites prove elusive.