“Every time you speak to Fozzy he makes you feel like a million dollars,” Viljami Sinisalo | OneFootball

Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo has spoken warmly about the influence of first-team coach Mark Fotheringham, highlighting the impact he has made behind the scenes at the club…

Celtic interim assistant coach Mark Fotheringham Celtic Scottish Premiership, Lennoxtown Training Ground, 31 October 2025. Photo Stuart Wallace Shutterstock

Fotheringham – who is part of Martin O’Neill’s interim backroom staff – has quickly won over supporters. The former Celtic youth player has grown into something of a cult figure among the fanbase.

His popularity appears to extend into the dressing room as well, with Sinisalo revealing that the squad hold him in extremely high regard and saying he is widely admired by everyone at the club.

The Finland international praised Fotheringham’s coaching ability, describing him as a top-class tactician who brings real energy to the training ground.

Celtic v Falkirk 29.10.2025 Scottish Premiership. Martin O’Neill, Shaun Maloney, Gavin Strachan and Mark Fotheringham Photo Kenny Ramsay IMAGO

However, Sinisalo revealed that his qualities go beyond football, insisting the coach is also an “unbelievable person” off the pitch.

He also credited Fotheringham with having a knack for boosting confidence, explaining that the coach has a way of making players feel capable of achieving anything.

Speaking via Celtic’s Instagram and X accounts, Sinisalo said: “Not only is Fozzy a brilliant coach but he is an unbelievable human being. Every time you speak to Fozzy he makes you feel like a million dollars.”

“You come out of the conversation feeling on top of the world and sometimes that’s what you need as a footballer. Everyone loves him and I’m sure I’m not the only one speaking very highly of him.”

Robbie Keane new frontrunner for Celtic job

September 25th, 2018, Cork, Ireland – Robbie Keane leaving the tunnel to warm up on the Pairc Ui Chaoimh pitch, for the Liam Miller Tribute match between Ireland and Celtic XI vs Manchester United XI. Photo IMAGO / Depositphotos

Meanwhile, Robbie Keane has emerged as a leading candidate to take charge of Celtic on a permanent basis, with a report in The Guardian suggesting the Ferencvaros manager tops a three-man shortlist being considered by the club.

The former Republic of Ireland captain has impressed in Hungary, guiding Ferencvaros to the summit of their domestic league while also leading them into the Europa League’s last-16 stage.

Keane had previously been linked with the Celtic job earlier in the season before the club opted to appoint Wilfried Nancy. However, Nancy’s troubled tenure ultimately led to his departure after eight games.

Manager Celtic Wilfried Nancy of Celtic looks on after Celtic’s loss in the Premier League match between Motherwell and Celtic at Fir Park on December 30, 2025 in Motherwell, Scotland. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)

That situation prompted the club to turn back to Martin O’Neill on a temporary basis, with the experienced manager returning to stabilise the team. Despite O’Neill’s efforts to steady matters, Celtic’s hierarchy are continuing their search for a long-term appointment.

Other names being considered include Wales boss Craig Bellamy and Motherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou.

Conor Spence

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