Craig Bellamy’s name is becoming harder to ignore as Celtic continue weighing up their long-term managerial direction beyond Martin O’Neill.
According to Stephen McGowan of the Herald, the Wales boss remains firmly in the frame at Celtic Park after Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou completed his move to Toulouse earlier today.
Askou had been heavily linked with Celtic over recent weeks after an impressive season at Fir Park. His departure to Ligue 1 removes one option from the conversation and puts more focus onto alternative candidates.
Bellamy is now one of the more interesting names attached to the role.
The former Celtic forward has built a strong reputation within Welsh football because of the intensity his teams play with and the standards he demands from players. Those close to Wales regularly speak about the detail in his coaching sessions and the aggressive style he wants from his side.
That profile fits what Celtic supporters usually expect from a manager.
Burnley are also reportedly pushing to appoint Bellamy following their relegation from the Premier League. That part matters because it suggests interest in him is not simply driven by his Celtic connection from his playing days.
His short spell at Celtic under O’Neill still carries weight though.
Bellamy scored nine goals during a memorable six-month loan in 2005 and remains hugely popular with supporters who loved his aggression and edge in big matches.
The bigger question is whether he actually wants to leave international football right now.
Publicly, Bellamy has repeatedly stated his focus remains fully on Wales and preparing for the World Cup. However, club football brings different pressures and opportunities, especially at a club like Celtic where expectations revolve around winning immediately and competing in Europe every season.
Elsewhere, uncertainty still surrounds O’Neill’s future despite last weekend’s title win over Hearts. The Scottish Cup Final against Dunfermline could potentially become his final match in charge if Celtic decide to move in another direction this summer.
Robbie Keane and Roberto Martinez continue to be linked as well, while Shaun Maloney is expected to remain heavily involved behind the scenes regardless of who eventually takes the job permanently.
