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Neil Lennon names the manager that should be ‘in the conversation’ for the Celtic job

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Neil Lennon has thrown a surprise name into the ring to become the new Celtic manager next season.

Celtic need to act quickly in appointing a long-term manager once Martin O’Neill leaves his interim role and several names have been linked.

Robbie Keane refused to answer questions about his future while once fan-favourite Jens Berthel Askou is giving some people second ideas after his recent struggles with Motherwell.

However, former Hoops boss Lennon has put forward a name that may raise the eyebrows of some.

I want the next manager of Celtic to be…

Martin O'Neill reacts to a decision made by a Celtic player against Dundee United
Credit: Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

Neil Lennon says Celtic should consider appointing John McGlynn

John McGlynn has worked wonders at Falkirk and secured them a top six finish in their first season back in the top flight since 2010.

Falkirk also face Lennon’s Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish Cup semi-final, where the winner could face Celtic in the final if the Bhoys get past St Mirren.

McGlynn has done brilliantly with limited resources and his touchline opponent thinks that he should be one of those in contention for the Parkhead vacancy.

“He’s got longevity,” said Lennon. “I think he should be in the conversation for the next Celtic manager as well.

Falkirk manager John McGlynn looks dejected after the Premier League match between Heart of Midlothian and Falkirk
Photo by Malcolm Mackenzie/Getty Images

“Whether that would appeal to John I don’t know and I don’t want to throw him under the bus. I apologise to the Falkirk people as well, but that’s how I rate John.

“I’ve got such admiration and respect for what he’s achieved, not just at Falkirk but throughout his career.

“He’s learned, he’s worked hard and he’s reaping the rewards of it. Fair play. He’s a sponge and I know he’s very thorough in his detailed approach.”

John McGlynn on his future

It isn’t the first time that McGlynn has been linked with moves elsewhere.

He was one of the candidates in question for the Aberdeen job before they appointed Stephen Robinson and, when asked about the speculation, the experienced coach refused to acknowledge the noise.

Speaking in January 2026, the Falkirk boss said: “I’ve had no contact and I’m not looking for that. I’m just looking to concentrate on the next game, keep the boys focused.

“The last thing I want is distractions. I’ve got to just focus on this game.”