CELTIC chiefs have reportedly held talks with several managerial candidates in London this week as they continue their search for Brendan Rodgers’ successor.
SunSport understands Columbus Crew boss Wilfried Nancy is the frontrunner, but there are a number of contenders being considered.
Martin O’Neill has taken temporary charge after Rodgers’ bombshell departure last month.
The club legend was brought in alongside Shaun Maloney to take over first team proceedings and they immediately got fans back on side.
But with Celtic not back in action for another 10 days due to the international break, it’s unclear if the pair will still be in charge when the Hoops return to face St Mirren.
However, it’s being reported that both O’Neill and Maloney are set to have talks with the Celtic hierarchy about their future as the search goes on.
That’s according to Sky Sports – who claim senior figures within the club will sit down with the pair to discuss a long-term plan.
The club is narrowing down their list of permanent candidates in the meantime.
Nancy remains the clear frontrunner but the report suggests Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna and Bodo/Glimt boss Kjetil Knutsen remain in the frame.
Other managers being linked with the job include Robbie Keane, Craig Bellamy and Club Brugge manager Nicky Hayen.
Hoops chiefs won’t be rushed into a quick appointment with O’Neill happy to take charge for the foreseeable.
It’s been a successful return for the most part having lost just one out of four he’s been in charge for – the 3-1 mauling to FC Midtjylland.
Celtic have scored four goals in back-to-back Premiership games against Falkirk and Kilmarnock, while also reaching the Premier Sports Cup final following an extra-time derby win against Rangers.
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