The noise around Robbie Keane and the Celtic job is not going anywhere.
His name has been in the mix for weeks now, one of several under consideration as the club weigh up their next move. A decision is expected once the season wraps, but Celtic cannot drift into the summer without clarity. There is too much work to be done.
A significant rebuild is coming; everyone can see that.
Martin O’Neill has already thrown his backing behind Keane, a familiar voice given their time together at Ireland. It adds weight to the conversation, even if it does not settle it.
The Celtic link will make Keane a serious candidate among the Hoops hierarchy. Without that, it’s a wonder whether he’d even be considered.
For now, Keane is getting on with things in Hungary.
His Ferencvaros side came from behind on Tuesday night to beat Puskas FC Academy 2-1 and move back to the top of the table. It keeps them firmly on track as they push to retain the title he won in his first season.
After the match, his focus was exactly where you would expect. He said (GlasgowWorld):
“The boys showed real character to turn the tables with two quick goals. I think at this level of the league there are ups and downs, but the most important thing is to win today. Everything in football depends on mentality. I expect a very tough match against Gyor, away from home, as our opponent has had a good season so far.
“We also have a good season, but it is also very difficult when you look at the international role and the fact that I have to operate with 18 foreign players. I have to try to make everyone happy. It’s almost over [the season], fortunately, I hope we can move on from there.”
There was nothing there about Celtic. Nothing about what comes next.
Keane is locked into the job in front of him, pushing his side over the line in a tight title race. That much is clear.
Whether that changes in the coming weeks is a different matter.
Celtic will already be doing their groundwork. They have to be. The last thing the club needs is another drawn-out search while rivals move quicker and preparations stall.
The team are still fighting on their own front, with a title to secure. That will always take priority on the pitch. Off it, decisions cannot wait much longer.
