Martin O’Neill says he is simply “keeping the seat warm” as Celtic search for a new permanent manager following Brendan Rodgers’ dramatic resignation.
The 73-year-old has returned to Celtic Park two decades after his trophy-filled spell ended, and admitted he “had to pull myself up off the floor” when asked to take charge on an interim basis.
O’Neill’s first match back will be against Falkirk in the Scottish Premiership on Wednesday.
Shock resignation and board backlash
Rodgers’ departure on Monday sparked a fierce reaction from major shareholder Dermot Desmond, who accused the former manager of acting in a “divisive, misleading and self-serving” manner during his time in charge.
In a strongly-worded letter to supporters, Desmond rejected Rodgers’ claims about his level of influence over transfers, insisting he had “final say over all football matters” including record signings. He further criticised Rodgers’ behaviour for contributing to a “toxic atmosphere” around the club.
Rodgers has been approached for comment.
Short-term return for a Celtic icon
O’Neill, who won three league titles, three Scottish Cups, a Scottish League Cup and reached the Uefa Cup final during his first tenure, said he could not turn down Celtic despite being out of management since leaving Nottingham Forest in 2019.
“Interim does mean interim. It’s as simple as that,” he told TalkSport. “Celtic are looking for, I assume, a young coach with proven ability. I’ll just keep the seat warm.”
O’Neill has brought in Shaun Maloney to assist him and joked he may call former star striker Henrik Larsson “to check if he’s been staying in the gym”.
Challenging moment for champions
Celtic sit eight points behind league leaders Hearts after a 3-1 defeat at Tynecastle and have endured a modest European campaign and underwhelming transfer window.
O’Neill’s task is clear: stabilise the champions while the club urgently searches for the next permanent leader to move the team forward.
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