The search for Brendan Rodgers’ successor at Celtic is underway.
Whilst the powers that be find their preferred candidate, Celtic cruised to a 4-0 win over Falkirk on Wednesday evening to mark Martin O’Neill’s return in style.
That puts Celtic six points behind Hearts in the Premiership table, after they dropped points at St Mirren, as Paul Merson feels, for the first time in a long time, the Hoops have ‘got a challenge.’
The former England international also wanted to debunk the perceptions around Celtic when putting forward the name of who should replace Brendan Rodgers.
Paul Merson backs Ange Postecoglou to replace Brendan Rodgers at Celtic
Given the drama and chaos of Monday evening, Merson admitted that he was left ‘shocked’ by what happened.
But now that Rodgers is out of the door, Merson feels only Ange Postecoglou can replace the Irishman because he understands the pressures of managing Celtic.
Speaking on the Premier League Show on Sky Sports, Merson explained that it’s ‘disrespectful’ when some people suggest ‘anybody can manage Celtic.’
“I was shocked,” admitted Merson when he watched the drama of Monday night unfold. “I know Celtic haven’t been great this season.
“But, for the first time in a long time, they have got a challenge. A proper challenge. I was quite shocked, if I am being honest.
“I am a big fan of Brendan Rodgers. I think it’s disrespectful when people go, ‘oh, it’s Celtic. Anybody can manage Celtic. They are the best team.’
“I think it’s difficult. I think that’s why Ange will go back to Celtic, in my opinion. I think you need somebody to go in there who knows the league and has been there before.”
Paul Merson uses Rangers example to highlight Celtic pressure
Merson wanted to use Rangers as an example, including how they have chopped and changed managers for fun, as an example of how well Celtic have done.
The former England international explained what the man in the dugout faces every week, despite the suggestion that Celtic have the better resources and team.
“We have seen Rangers managers go in and been blown away,” added Merson.
“You are the Celtic manager, every game you play, it’s a cup final for the other team, and you have to get your players up every week. It’s not as easy as people think it is.
“I think Ange would tick the box. If they want to win the Premiership again. I think Ange needs to go in there.”
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