Former Celtic hero Aiden McGeady discusses his next career steps at 36

By John McGinley

April 16, 2022

Former Celtic hero Aiden McGeady is taking steps to move into a new phase of his footballing career but has admitted he isn’t ready to hang up his boots yet.

McGeady turned 36 earlier this month and his contract expires at Sunderland at the end of this season.

That leaves him with some unknowns to consider. However, he is adamant he can still perform for another season or two at a level he’s comfortable with.

Speaking to The Scottish Daily Mail [16/04 print edition, page 114], he said: “I want to play on for a couple of years. I don’t even like talking about coaching because if you do, it is as if you are almost nearing the end.

“I know I am 36 and have not got that many years left but I still think that the way that I play I can do so for a few years. It is not just playing for the sake of playing. If I wasn’t able to do what I once could, I would be frustrated.”

Despite this commitment to on the pitch action, McGready is actually making plans for the future on the other side of football.

He told journalist Hugh MacDonald that he has just completed his UEFA B licence, while the winger is also underway on a Masters degree in sports directorship.

McGeady said: “That’s extremely time-consuming. It is taking me back to school: essays, reports, presentations. Right out of my comfort zone.

“I don’t know if coaching really appeals to me but I will have the credentials if chances come up.”

The former Celtic player has always been an individual with strong, outspoken opinions. You could easily see him take a leadership role somewhere in football, even if it’s not in the dugout.

He forged a unique path from Celtic to Spartak Moscow and into the English Premier League. You wouldn’t bet against his post-playing days taking a few twists and turns either.

One to watch!

In other news, Ange Postecoglou has no fear as he addresses Celtic treble hype in the perfect way.