As the speculation surrounding Celtic’s next manager hits a few high notes this week, Robbie Keane continues to feature prominently in the rumour mill.
While the former Celtic striker’s attacking philosophy and recent title-winning pedigree at Ferencváros are certainly turning heads, some supporters naturally harbour concerns about how he would handle the unique, relentless pressure of the Scottish Premiership.
However, the answer to those doubts might also lie in the men currently sitting next to him on the bench.
For any incoming manager, a trusted support system is vital, especially when you are managing the pressure cooker of Celtic.
Here is a closer look at Keane’s current backroom staff in Budapest, which reveals a ready-made, modern coaching team – headlined by a familiar face, known to Scottish fans.
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Stephen Glass, Assistant Manager
Stephen Glass serves as Keane’s direct number two, having been brought in by the Irishman to replace his former assistant, Rory Delap, last summer.
This makes Glass the most senior member of Keane’s backroom staff and the man who helps dictate the day-to-day training and tactical set-up on the pitch.
Glass was the manager of Aberdeen, coaching them from 2021-22, including against Celtic, as he is seen in the image below.
De Almeida Leandro, Assistant Coach
Another assistant of Keane’s. But he holds a different role than Glass.
You could argue that De Almeida Leandro is the John Kennedy of Ferencváros. Known as the ‘Club Man’, he was a player in 2002 for four years, and he returned in 2015, before starting his coaching journey in 2023.
Phill Hudson, Senior Performance Analyst
Phill Hudson is the Senior Performance Analyst (or First-Team Match Analyst) for Keane at Ferencváros.
He is essentially the tactical brain operating behind the scenes. Having spent 11 years working his way up at Middlesbrough (where he first met Keane), Hudson has followed the Celtic manager target throughout his managerial journey.
Bence Kovács and Márton Bognár, First Team Fitness Coaches
Bence Kovács is the First Team Fitness Coach (Strength and Conditioning Coach) for Ferencváros, working alongside Márton Bognár.
Keane’s long-time fitness specialist, Andy Liddell, did not follow him to Hungary; Kovács and Bognár stepped up to become Keane’s primary man for physical conditioning.
Their roles are crucial to how the one-time Celtic man wants his teams to play. He favours a modern, high-intensity, attacking style of football that requires a relentless press.
Ákos Balogh, Video Analyst
A video analyst who works alongside Phill Hudson.
Ákos Balogh is part of the existing club infrastructure in Hungary rather than a member of Keane’s personal, travelling coaching ticket.
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