Martin O'Neill has made a sensational return to Celtic as caretaker manager, answering an SOS from the club's hierarchy after Brendan Rodgers resigned for a second time. The 72-year-old club legend will be assisted by Shaun Maloney, with their first game against Falkirk on Wednesday night.
Celtic's largest shareholder Dermot Desmond launched a blistering attack on Rodgers, accusing him of breaking trust and creating a toxic atmosphere at the club. Rodgers has yet to respond publicly. O'Neill, who previously managed Celtic from 2000 to 2005, was speaking about Hearts' title chances on talkSPORT less than 24 hours before his appointment.
O'Neill and Maloney will steady the ship while the club searches for a permanent successor. Among the contenders are former Celtic striker Robbie Keane, Ange Postecoglou, and Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna, though prising McKenna away could cost over £5 million.
Meanwhile, Celtic are revamping their academy structure, with Stevie Hammell stepping up to head the academy, replacing long-serving Chris McCart. The club aims to increase youth production, following the examples of Colby Donovan and Dane Murray.
Maloney admitted the players were hurting after a dramatic 24 hours that saw Rodgers and assistant John Kennedy leave. Kennedy's departure ended a 27-year association with the club as a player and coach. Maloney was tasked with lifting the squad during a traumatic morning at Lennoxtown.
