Chris Sutton has reacted to the news that Martin O’Neill is staying at Celtic permanently.
O’Neill has reportedly agreed a one-year deal with the option of a further year after talks with Dermot Desmond.
It follows a week of a head-to-head race between O’Neill and Robbie Keane for the job; Desmond reportedly avoided appointing the latter due to fan backlash.
But what does this mean for the future? How will things look this summer? Sutton, a man with more knowledge of O’Neill than most, has had his say.
Martin O’Neill STAYS! Thoughts on the decision?
Chris Sutton: Celtic need a clear recruitment plan for Martin O’Neill
Sutton wrote on X: “Good news [that] Martin O’Neill is staying on as being reported…
“But only if he has the same power as he had first time round as manager. Still so many other aspects need sorting.
READ MORE: Dermot Desmond ‘backs away’ from Robbie Keane appointment amid Celtic fan backlash
“Recruitment? Let’s hope we hear of a clear plan from now on going forward.”
Reports last month said that Shaun Maloney had interviewed for the role of Head of Football Operations, previously held by Nick Hammond and Paul Tisdale.
If Maloney is to move upstairs, then a key vacancy has been created in the dugout. If not, a key vacancy remains upstairs.
Celtic’s January business was scattergun to say the least. Five loan signings were made, along with one short-term signing of a free agent.
For the most part, the signings didn’t work out. If that process repeats this summer, the Hoops’ streak of five consecutive league titles is at serious risk.
Sutton asks the important question regarding events upstairs, but most importantly, we know who the man in the dugout will be: someone who achieved a league and cup double that many thought was impossible.
With such a stellar record across both of his interim spells this season, O’Neill understandably had the right of refusal on the Parkhead hotseat.
However, a completely different challenge awaits next season, with a significant rebuild of the team’s playing squad ahead.
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