“Really Good Coach” – Charlie Mulgrew Backs Shaun Maloney to Replace Rodgers

Charlie Mulgrew has caused a stir among Celtic supporters by suggesting Shaun Maloney could be a candidate to replace Brendan Rodgers at the end of the season.

The former Celtic defender praised Maloney’s coaching pedigree despite his struggles in management, claiming his old teammate could step up to the top job at Parkhead.

Maloney recently returned to Celtic as Professional Player Pathway Manager, working on youth development after a difficult spell at Wigan Athletic. He was also sacked by Hibernian after just four months in charge, leading many to question his credentials for a role as demanding as the Celtic job.

Mulgrew, however, pointed to Maloney’s experience working with Belgium under Roberto Martinez, insisting the 42-year-old has the coaching ability to handle a senior post. His remarks come at a time of growing scrutiny on Rodgers, with supporters furious at the summer transfer window and protests planned at Rugby Park this weekend.

While Mulgrew did stress that Rodgers remains in charge, his backing of Maloney as a possible successor is unlikely to be well received among fans who expect a proven winner to lead the club.

He said: (Go Radio Football Show), “It would be unfair to start saying people or touting people for the job, but I think Shaun Maloney’s a really good coach, and would be a good manager.

“He’s worked at a high level, at the national team with Belgium, worked closely with Roberto Martinez. A right good coach. John Kennedy’s an unbelievable coach.

“But Brendan Rodgers is in the job just now, and it’s up to him to get the team playing, and back to more of a threat in the final third.”

Mulgrew’s praise for Maloney will raise eyebrows given his short-lived stints in management to date. Both Hibernian and Wigan opted to cut ties quickly after poor runs of form, leaving his coaching reputation stronger than his record in the dugout.

Celtic fans, already frustrated with the board, are unlikely to welcome talk of another inexperienced appointment. With the pressure on Rodgers to steady the ship, many supporters expect the club to aim higher if change does come.

Maloney’s current role focuses on youth development rather than first-team duties, and the suggestion of him stepping up reflects Mulgrew’s personal admiration rather than any official plan. Still, the timing of such talk adds another layer to an already unsettled atmosphere around the club.

For now, Rodgers remains tasked with lifting Celtic’s form and uniting the squad. Whether Maloney ever enters the frame for the top job will depend as much on Rodgers’ fate as on whether supporters could be persuaded to accept such a gamble.