Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy’s first full session at Lennoxtown offered more than just a glimpse of the new manager’s approach.
Their presence on the pitch, actively involved in drills and discussions, strongly suggests both will remain in place as part of the new structure.
Nancy, who officially took charge this week, stepped straight into work with the squad ahead of Sunday’s meeting with Hearts.
While the focus naturally fell on the Frenchman’s interactions with the players, the involvement of Strachan and Woods stood out. With the pair having served under multiple managers, their continued visibility at this early stage points to a degree of continuity that will help steady the transition.
🍀 Wilfried Nancy is taking Celtic training for the first time.
The new manager will speak to the media later ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/orBaJk1Zcn
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) December 5, 2025
Strachan, who has been first-team coach since 2020, was seen leading elements of the technical warm-up while also engaging in tactical exchanges with Nancy between drills.
His familiarity with the squad and understanding of Celtic’s day-to-day rhythms appeared to be an asset, with Nancy frequently consulting him during positional exercises. As someone who has seen the club through major changes in the last four years, Strachan’s influence remains a steadying presence.
Woods’ longevity at the club is well known, and his calm, methodical approach has seen him remain an important figure through numerous managerial eras. His involvement today further supports the belief that he will remain part of the new manager’s inner circle.
The session itself carried a positive tone. Nancy, smiling throughout, moved between groups to observe and offer instruction, clearly intent on building early relationships with the players and staff around him.
The presence of both Strachan and Woods beside him underscored a collaborative atmosphere, one that should help the squad adapt quickly to new ideas.
Their participation comes at a key moment. With Celtic preparing for a major fixture this weekend, the squad cannot afford a fragmented transition.
Having experienced coaches in place who understand both the players and the club’s expectations provides Nancy with a foundation to build from rather than starting from scratch. That stability could prove vital in the early weeks of his tenure.
Strachan’s consistency over recent years has given him a deep familiarity with the internal workings of the squad.
His role in linking past and present regimes should ensure that Nancy’s methods are implemented smoothly. Woods’ case is even more pronounced. Almost two decades into his time at Celtic, he remains one of the most trusted figures in the building, having worked successfully with numerous goalkeepers who have gone on to play key roles for the club.
The images from Lennoxtown, showing all three working together for the first time, hinted at a staff dynamic built around experience and clarity.
Nancy may introduce new ideas and fresh approaches, but retaining coaches who know the environment intimately will give him important support as he navigates the pressures of managing Celtic.
With Nancy set to meet the media at 1.30pm for his first press conference, the morning session served as a useful early marker.
Supporters will hear later today how he views the challenge ahead, but the pictures from Lennoxtown already tell part of the story. This is a manager embracing continuity where it benefits him, surrounding himself with staff who understand the demands of the club and who can help translate his philosophy onto the pitch.
As Celtic move into a new chapter, the sight of Strachan and Woods alongside Nancy suggests a blend of fresh leadership and established stability.
For a squad facing immediate challenges, that combination may be exactly what is needed.
Keep Reading
One Response
Couldnt get a more important week or three games first three wins how you better that people thought they would hold out till newyear I didnt so much ego stuff going on lawall and Rodgers green brigade who have let anorchists stand near them people thinking we are politicle those have to be told find your own place they are just trying to get themselves into Celtic media. A8nd board hesitating on transfers over the money if they dont except move on throwing crums takes up to much time by the time you n⁸ear the money the ask for we are in desparations mode and player doesnt feel wanted enough yes they have all made mistakes supporters hanging out clubs dirty washing not good if dermit was more invovled in the running of the club he would see this building the Palistinen thing our supporters got duped so we have to tell these people we are a club for all