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Martin O’Neill has made it clear that his return to Celtic is strictly temporary, saying he will only “keep the seat warm” for the club’s next permanent manager.
The 73-year-old, who managed Celtic between 2000 and 2005 in one of the club’s most successful periods, took over as interim manager following the sudden resignation of Brendan Rodgers on Monday.
Rodgers’ departure was quickly followed by a strongly worded statement from major shareholder Dermot Desmond, who accused the former manager of being “divisive, deceitful and selfish” during his time at the club.
Speaking to TalkSport, O’Neill admitted he was stunned when he was asked to return.
“I took a breath and asked if this was real,” he said. “It’s hard to turn down someone who gave you the job in the first place when he had great options 25 years ago. When I got up off the court, I thought maybe I should do it.”
O’Neill’s first game back in charge will be against Falkirk at Celtic Park on Wednesday night. He will be joined by former player Shaun Maloney, who has arrived as his assistant.
The veteran coach last worked in management in 2019 with Nottingham Forest, following his time as Republic of Ireland manager which ended the previous year.
His previous spell at Celtic remains legendary, winning three league titles, three Scottish Cups, a League Cup and leading the club to the UEFA Cup final in 2003.
“It’s short-term. Celtic are probably shocked by the news that Brendan has left. They’re obviously looking for a permanent manager, so it’s a short-term option,” O’Neill explained. “Interim means interim. It’s as simple as that. I guess Celtic are looking for a young manager with proven ability. We want to take the club forward now.
“Naturally I had a great time at Celtic, it was a privilege. I can’t stress it enough, it’s only a short time until a permanent manager is appointed. I’ll just keep the seat warm.”
O’Neill joked that he might ask one of his former players for support, adding: “I might call Henrik Larsson to ask him if he’s staying in the gym.”
Celtic currently sit eight points behind leaders Heart of Midlothian after their 3-1 defeat at Tynecastle on Sunday, and have also endured a disappointing run in Europe as well as a quiet transfer window.
In an extraordinary open letter to fans, Dermot Desmond publicly questioned Rodgers’ account of his departure, denying claims that he was denied control over transfers or offered an extension.
“In reality, he was given the final say on all football matters and was consistently supported in the recruiting process, including a record investment in players he personally identified and approved,” Desmond wrote.
“Sadly, his words and actions since then have been divisive, misleading and selfish. They have contributed to a toxic atmosphere around the club and fueled hostility towards members of the executive team and board of directors.
“What has failed recently is not because of our structure or model, but because of an individual’s desire for self-preservation at the expense of others.”
