Aiden McGeady has weighed in on the search for Celtic’s next manager and believes the club cannot afford another chaotic season behind the scenes.
But while Keane is one of several names linked with the role, McGeady feels Celtic should focus on experience and proven work under pressure rather than simply sentiment.
The club are still dealing with uncertainty heading into the summer after a season that has seen multiple managerial changes and growing frustration among supporters.
McGeady pointed toward that instability while discussing the type of appointment Celtic need to make.
He believes the next manager must arrive with a clear track record of building teams and handling difficult situations, especially with the squad expected to change again in the coming months.
McGeady discussed the names currently linked with the position and where his own thinking sits.
He said: (Daily Record), “You’ll see a few names mentioned for the Celtic job over the next few weeks. I’ve heard Robbie Keane, Roberto Martinez, Jens Berthel Askou, and Kjetil Knutsen, the Bodo/Glimt manager.
“I would be swaying towards somebody who has got a track record of doing decent things on a really small budget, and so I’d be going with Knudsen, personally.
“He’s done such an amazing job with the squad he’s got… to take that team from the Norwegian First Division, to getting them to compete in the Champions League, with massive teams, is incredible.
“Celtic just have to focus on getting things right with their next appointment.
“They can’t afford a repeat of this season.”
McGeady also spoke about Keane specifically and why he believes that link will naturally appeal to supporters.
The pair briefly shared a dressing room at Celtic, and McGeady feels the former striker’s connection to the club would immediately bring excitement among the support.
At the same time, he stressed the decision has to go beyond emotion.
He added: “Robbie Keane is probably the appointment who would pull at heartstrings the most.
“First of all, as a manager, he’s had success in two different countries, which obviously puts him in a good position.
“But then there’s that tie to Celtic, he played for them, he’s Irish… there’s a bit of romance to that appointment.
“I’d like to see Celtic go for someone who has a proven track record as an experienced manager.
“There’s been a real disconnect there this season, and I just hope everybody can get back together this summer, and get behind the team going into next season.”
Knutsen’s name continues to come up because of the work he has done at Bodo/Glimt with limited resources. Celtic supporters have watched that side compete in Europe playing aggressive football and developing players without massive spending.
Askou is another candidate gaining attention after his work with Motherwell this season. Results against Rangers and Hearts have only added to the discussion around him, especially with Celtic still searching for direction behind the scenes.
Keane remains the emotional option for many supporters. His connection to the club and personality would instantly energise parts of the fanbase, although questions would still come over whether he is the right fit for the rebuild Celtic face this summer.
Whoever gets the job walks into a club that needs stability quickly. Recruitment, squad balance, supporter trust, and the structure above the manager all need sorted before a ball is kicked next season.
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