Why Roy Keane rejected Celtic in 2014 and why he now wants the job

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Roy Keane is open to offers from Celtic to become manager of the club, seven years after talks between the two parties collapsed.

The Scottish Sun reports that Keane is eager to take charge of the Bhoys and take the fight to Steven Gerrard’s Rangers next season.

Negotiations between Celtic and Keane failed in 2014 prior to Ronny Deila’s arrival. That was due to the former Manchester United star’s unhappiness with how Peter Lawwell handled the talks, it’s reported.

In his autobiography, The Second Half (published in 2014, as quoted by The Daily Record), Keane said: “I had been down this road before when I signed for Celtic as a player.

“I felt they wanted me but they weren’t showing how much they wanted me. It wasn’t rocking my boat.

“They just didn’t show me that they wanted me and I was happier staying in the Ireland job.

“I felt powerful saying: ‘No’. I felt good. But I wondered if I was making the right decision. Right job, wrong time.”

Lawwell is now on his way out of the club this summer and Keane is said to still hold a strong allegiance to the club he played for briefly under Gordon Strachan.

Now seeking a return to management, he’s ready to say goodbye to his position as a prominent Sky Sports pundit and take charge of the Hoops.

It comes after a number of names have already been linked with the vacant position at Celtic including Eddie Howe, Enzo Maresca, Steve Clarke, Chris Wilder and Frank Lampard.

Roy Keane – what Celtic need?

Keane is a blockbuster name and a big personality – but neither of those traits may be relevant to what Celtic need in the dugout next term.

The outspoken pundit would certainly speak his mind to the squad and try to raise standards, but the same could have been said for Neil Lennon.

This group of players don’t need to be shouted at or received a kick up the backside, they need elite coaching and adaptive tactical thinking.

Based on reputation alone, Keane would likely have backing from sections of the Celtic support. However, I’m personally hoping the club are looking past reputation this time around.

This decision has to be based on current ability and future potential as a Celtic boss.

Keane’s playing career was stellar but his managerial career was less so and I’m not sure he’s the right fit for the Hoops.

In other news, James Forrest reckons Scott Brown could stay on at Celtic next season.