Former Celtic striker John Hartson has named several candidates who he believes could be in line for the Hoops job in the summer.
As quoted by the Daily Record, speaking on Off the Ball, Hartson spoke about the prospect of Eddie Howe and Scotland boss Steve Clarke being possible options for the job whilst also naming former team-mate Roy Keane as an outside candidate.
Speaking about Keane, Hartson said:
“He would be well-respected among the players, he would have learned a lot in terms of what he has achieved up to now.
When asked if he was concerned about Keane having not managed in 10 years, he said: “No not really.
“He has come from an assistant role. I wouldn’t be concerned. You know me if I didn’t think Roy was the person that could galvanise the team and get them going, get them organised, then I would be the first one to say that.
“I think Roy would be good.”
Going on to talk about Howe and Clarke, he added:
“He [Howe] played brilliant football at Bournemouth, kept them in the Premier League. Played exciting football on the front foot with Callum Wilson and Josh King, these types of players.
“He had good defences as well at Bournemouth. I think he would be good as he is looking for a job, and is actively looking I understand.
“Steve Clarke would be my number one to go to if he was available, but obviously he is in charge of Scotland.
He did a fantastic job at Kilmarnock, and has worked with the best in the past in terms of learning and picked up from the best. He’s got Scotland in the Euro’s and we will see how Scotland do there.
“He would be someone for me if I had the opportunity, and was picking a manager, I would pick someone like Steve Clarke.”
The Celtic board have a big job on their hands when it comes to picking the man to lead the club forward whilst also keeping fans happy with the appointment.
For many, someone like Roy Keane and even Steve Clarke to some wouldn’t cut that. Especially Keane, who was, of course, a superb player but hasn’t hit the heights at all as a manager with clubs such as Sunderland and Ipswich Town.
One of the ideal candidates for the job is probably Eddie Howe but the club will have a fight on their hands to secure his services as it is highly likely several English Premier League sides will also be looking at Howe with intent.
