Celtic were not only looking to recruit players in January, but a coach made his return to the club 18 years after departing.
Michael McGovern came through the ranks at Celtic after making the move from his hometown club in Enniskillen.
The goalkeeper signed a professional contract in 2004, though he departed four years later without making a senior appearance.
After retiring in 2024, the 32-capped Northern Irishman made the move into coaching. After a stint with Queen’s Park, he moved to Celtic at the beginning of this year and hasn’t looked back.
Speaking to The Fermanagh Herald, McGovern spoke about his role working with the senior team, as well as the B side:
“I’ve really enjoyed it. I came in in January, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. It’s great being back at the football club, and I enjoy the role.”
The 41-year-old also spoke about getting to work alongside Martin O’Neill.
“Working with the manager was something I was really looking forward to before I came in, and it hasn’t disappointed” he added.
“I’ve learned a lot from Martin, and all the coaching staff have been brilliant. Celtic is a massive club, and for myself as a coach, I want to be working at the highest level possible.
“Celtic are the champions again, we’re the best club in Scotland.”
McGovern takes pride in playing a part as the Hoops secured a league and Scottish Cup double, and specifically highlights the final-day title decider as a “privilege”.
“It was a privilege personally to be involved with preparing the goalkeepers for that game.
“It’s a game people will look back on in 30 years and remember it. It was like a cup final, only it was to win the league. We weren’t top of the league for many days throughout the season, but we were when it counted.
“That’s what this football club is built on, success, winning trophies, winning leagues, and that got us through in the end.”
His hunger for success only further strengthens the mentality amongst the coaching staff at the club.
O’Neill was also supported by Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham as they steered the ship and sealed a dramatic ending to a turbulent season.
It remains to be seen what the coaching setup looks like next season, with either Robbie Keane or O’Neill set to become permanent manager.
Dermot Desmond has met with both, but official news is yet to be confirmed.
