Councillors in Ireland have called for Celtic legend Martin O’Neill to be immortalised with a plaque in Kilrea.
They have also suggested that the interim Celtic boss be given the Freedom of the Borough, the highest civic honour available for Northern Irish councils to give out.
O’Neill was already an icon in Glasgow’s East End, but his incredible impact across two interim spells this season has led to widespread calls for a statue to be built in his honour outside Celtic Park.
The wait continues for Celtic fans to find out whether O’Neill will remain in the Parkhead dugout, as managerial talks continue.
Your reaction to the latest development in the Celtic manager race?
Sinn Féin councillors call for Martin O’Neill plaque
The motion forward by Sinn Fein councillors Sean Bateson and Leanne Peacock says: “That this council recognises and celebrates the outstanding sporting achievements of Martin O’Neill…
“A native of Kilrea, whose distinguished career has brought immense pride and recognition to Kilrea and the wider Causeway Coast and Glens Borough.
READ MORE: Elijah Just admits Celtic speculation is ‘nice to hear’, makes ambition clear
“Council notes his exceptional contribution to football both as a player and manager, including winning two European Cups with Nottingham Forest, captaining at the 1982 FIFA World Cup, and enjoying major managerial success with clubs including Leicester City, Celtic and Aston Villa.
“Council further notes his recent return to management with Celtic, culminating in the remarkable achievement of winning the league title at the age of 74, demonstrating his enduring leadership and contribution to the game.
“Accordingly, this council calls on officers to explore appropriate ways to formally recognise Martin O’Neill’s contribution and legacy within the borough, including the installation of a commemorative plaque or civic recognition in Kilrea and/or the awarding of the Freedom of the Borough.
“Council further agrees to engage with local stakeholders, sporting organisations and the O’Neill family as part of this process.”
O’Neill’s father was a founding member of a Gaelic Football club in Kilrea, and he went on to represent the town himself.
His return to prominence this season has been something of a fairytale, and many agree that no other manager would have been able to deliver what he did at Celtic Park this season.
Should Celtic build a statue of Martin O’Neill outside of Parkhead?
Celtic’s manager race: Keane vs O’Neill
Robbie Keane is already lining up his Celtic backroom staff, with Scott Brown and Jonny Hayes in line for Parkhead returns and Stephen Glass also prepared to accompany the Irishman.
O’Neill’s status will factor into Shaun Maloney’s role next season; the 43-year-old has reportedly been interviewed for the upstairs role of Head of Football Operations.
Keane’s pre-existing relationship with Desmond is well-known and undoubtedly a factor in his candidacy for the hotseat.
O’Neill has been vocal about his reservations over the role, and could yet decide to step out of the running.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
