Dermot Desmond has confirmed that incoming Chief Executive Dominic McKay will play a part in the hunt for a new Celtic manager.
Desmond took part in an exclusive interview with the official Celtic website this evening. In truth, it was nothing more than yet another defence of how he runs the club.
He was asked a host of questions about the managerial hunt, how the season has gone, and allegations that he isn’t a true supporter Unsurprisingly, he said a lot of words without actually telling us anything. He stated that the process to find a new boss was underway and that his shares aren’t for sale.
However, there was an interesting quote from him on that managerial process and who would be involved. Finally, it’s been confirmed that McKay, due to start officially in July, will be involved in the decision-making process.
Speaking to the official Celtic website, Desmond said: “As with any key appointment at Celtic, there is a process which involves research, investigation, interviewing and negotiation. This process is underway and is taking place privately and when complete, the Board will make a public announcement.
“The Chairman Ian Bankier, Peter Lawwell and myself take a lead in the process, and naturally, the incoming CEO will also participate. Any decision made will require Board approval.
“We are mindful of the fact that there is a huge amount of interest and speculation among our supporters and the press. However, we have to respect the privacy of potential candidates and the integrity of the process, and so I think it would be inappropriate to make comment on the type of candidate we are looking for.”
Dermot Desmond gives fans Celtic crumb of information but nothing more; Dominic McKay input remains vital
So that was effectively it on the hunt for a new boss. Just that we’ve to all calm down and wait until we’re told the club is ready.
Nothing about timelines. Nothing truly about the ideal candidate. Just nothing of any real substance that will appease the Celtic supporters. If Desmond could’ve given us an idea about when he wanted the new man in, it would’ve provided a big boost for us.
Instead, we’re still left with many of the same questions we had beforehand. There’s nothing to truly get excited about here.
What is important is that McKay is given a key role in the decision-making process. This is, after all, the man he’s going to have to work with in the future. With Peter Lawwell leaving the club in the summer, he shouldn’t be given any more autonomy than McKay.
Granted, Desmond didn’t go into much detail about the process. He didn’t even state how much influence each individual involved actually has. But knowing McKay is still participating is reassuring.
It’s about the only reassuring thing that came from the interview in truth.
In other news, we discuss why this Neil Lennon’s signing’s exploits are under-appreciated.
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