Robbie Keane’s chances of becoming Celtic manager appear to have faded in recent days, but speculation about a potential future role at the club refuses to disappear.
The former Celtic striker was heavily linked with the vacancy throughout the managerial search and held discussions with the club before momentum swung firmly behind Martin O’Neill.
Reports last Friday suggested O’Neill had agreed a one-year contract with the option of a further 12 months after leading Celtic to a dramatic domestic double.
That development effectively cooled talk of Keane becoming manager this summer.
However, suggestions have persisted that Celtic were impressed by Keane’s long-term ideas and vision for the club.
It has even been claimed that discussions explored different structures which could have seen O’Neill remain involved while Keane developed within the football department before potentially taking on a larger role in future.
Now, one of O’Neill’s friends has suggested a similar scenario could still make sense.
Former Northern Ireland international and ex-West Ham United and Southampton striker Iain Dowie believes O’Neill could have an important role in mentoring a younger coach.
Speaking about the situation, Dowie said:
“Martin is a friend of mine, I’ve played a bit of golf with him.
“In the situations he came into both times at Celtic, it was very difficult.
“I think he’s done an outstanding job, no doubt.
“He provides stability, continuity, and proven success at Celtic.
“I don’t think it’s as easy a club to manage as people consider.
“There’s a huge amount of pressure.
“I think Martin will be around for a while.
“And perhaps he can nurture and guide a younger man, someone of Robbie Keane’s ilk.
“So, let’s see.” [Betano Casino]
Whether Celtic themselves have any interest in pursuing that type of arrangement remains unclear.
Recent comments from Simon Jordan suggested such a structure might not appeal to O’Neill, who would likely prefer to remain fully focused on managing rather than preparing a successor.
For now, all signs point towards O’Neill leading Celtic into next season.
But with the club reportedly impressed by Keane during talks, it would be unwise to completely rule out the possibility of the former striker resurfacing in some capacity further down the line.
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