Martin O’Neill has underlined that his return to Celtic is purely temporary, saying his role is to steady the ship until a new manager is appointed.
The 73-year-old was brought back by Dermot Desmond following Brendan Rodgers’ shock resignation earlier this week.
O’Neill said he was taken aback by the call but accepted the chance to help the club through a difficult spell. He made it clear, however, that his comeback is an interim measure and that the board will be looking for a younger coach to lead the club forward in the long term.
O’Neill, who guided Celtic to multiple trophies during his first spell in charge, said his immediate focus is simply on results. He and assistant Shaun Maloney have little time to settle in, with crucial matches coming thick and fast.
The Northern Irishman said he still feels a deep connection with the club but stressed that his main task is to give Celtic stability and a platform for the next permanent manager.
He said: (talkSPORT), “It’s a short-term job. I was stunned by the news that Brendan left, and as a consequence they’ll now be seeking a permanent manager. Interim does mean interim to me — it’s really as simple as that.
“Celtic are looking for a young coach with proven ability, someone who can pull the club forward from their current position. That’s how I see it, and I think the supporters will too.
“At Celtic, it’s always been about winning football matches. If we can do that, it gives everyone a bit of breathing space until a new manager is appointed.
“My time had gone, I said that before. I can’t emphasise enough this is short-term until a permanent manager comes in. I’m just here to keep the seat warm for him.”
O’Neill couldn’t have made things clearer, this is a short-term rescue job, not a full-time return. His only focus now is getting Celtic back on track and lifting the mood in the dressing room.
His honesty will be welcomed by supporters and the board, who are already looking ahead to what comes next. Early contenders for the permanent job include former boss Ange Postecoglou and Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna, both admired for their modern, attacking styles of play.
For O’Neill, the task is straightforward: bring some calm and direction to a team that has lost its way. With decades of experience behind him, he knows exactly what it takes to steady a side under pressure.
His return may only last a short while, but it says everything about his connection to the club. When Celtic called, O’Neill didn’t hesitate, and once again, he’s back where he’s always been most at home.
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