Celtic appoint Martin O’Neill as permanent manager after title-winning campaign | OneFootball

Celtic have confirmed the appointment of Martin O’Neill as their new permanent manager.

O’Neill has signed a one-year contract, with the option to extend for a further year.

Robbie Keane was also considered for the position, but Celtic abandoned their pursuit of the former Ferencvaros manager following protests from fans over his links to Israel.

O’Neill was appointed on an interim basis twice last season. He replaced Brendan Rodgers in October, before stepping in for Wilfried Nancy in January.

He went on to guide the Hoops to a fifth consecutive Scottish Premiership title, beating Hearts in a dramatic fashion. He has now won the league on four occasions.

Celtic also claimed the Scottish Cup, defeating Championship side Dunfermline Athletic 3–1 at Hampden Park, completing the domestic double.

The 74-year-old has won the domestic double twice as Celtic boss and has brought nine major titles to the club.

Reacting to his appointment, O’Neill said: “It is once again a great privilege for me to continue as Celtic manager. Last season will live long in all our memories and to be part of that success has in a big way whetted the appetite to work again for more days like those and bring our supporters those moments.

“Of course, none of this could have been achieved without the players and staff and I want to take this opportunity to thank them for bringing that level of focus, determination and talent to bear at the conclusion of the season to deliver the league and Cup double.

“I would particularly like to thank the Board for asking me back and giving me this opportunity again.

“We know of course that Celtic can never rest on past success so we are now aiming to drive forward together in the coming season as we aim to deliver again for the club and our fans.

“I thank our fans for their ongoing support; it means everything to us. I look forward to being back at Celtic Park next season when we will come together, and we will strive again to bring our fans the success which that support deserves.”

Celtic now has to strengthen their squad this summer to build on last season’s success.

Bolstering their centre-back and attacking options should be their priorities, particularly if they are to be more competitive in Europe next term.