A new era is set to begin at Celtic following Brendan Rodgers’ exit.
Everyone saw this coming, but perhaps not in the manner in which it all unfolded on Monday evening when Rodgers resigned from his post.
Rodgers didn’t leave Celtic Park with flowers in his hands and a box of chocolates, but left to stand in the rain on his own after being verbally savaged by Dermot Desmond.
But while all of that continues to be a talking point, who will be Celtic’s next manager?
Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty ImagesPaul Merson on the contenders for Celtic’s next manager
When Sky Sports brought up the issue, ahead of Celtic’s League Cup semi-final clash against Rangers.
Paul Merson wanted to make the point that managers who have got clubs relegated have been treated with more respect than Rodgers was shown by Desmond.
That’s when Merson saw the list of contenders for the job, and how the bookies don’t really have anyone as favourites, with Kieran McKenna joint favourite alongside Martin O’Neill.
Either way, Merson thinks it’s ‘very worrying’, as there doesn’t seem to be a clear candidate days after Rodgers’ exit.
“I’ve seen managers get football clubs relegated, and when they have left, they haven’t been talked about like that,” said Merson on Desmond’s statement on Rodgers.
On seeing the contenders for the possible Celtic job: “Wow,” stated Merson. “They don’t know. Wow. That’s worrying. Very worrying.”
Who is on the list to be Celtic’s next manager?
It has to be noted that it’s speculation, but in some cases, the usual names have been put on the table, such as former managers or ex-players, who are now in coaching.
MON’s name will continue to get a mention because of his status and as long as he is still wearing the colours, even if it’s very unlikely to happen.
But here are some of the names being thrown about to become Celtic’s next manager:
Kieran McKenna (Ipswich Town boss)Martin O’Neill Ange Postecoglou Lee Carsley (England U21’s coach)Nicky Hayen (Club Brugge coach)Robbie Keane (Ferencváros coach)Craig Bellamy (Wales coach)Scott Brown (Ayr United coach)Damien Duff Ruud van NistelrooyWilfried Nancy (Columbus Crew coach)Shaun MaloneyStephen Robinson (St Mirren coach)