Celtic’s search for a new manager has been the definition of a circus. The Bhoys have been on the hunt for a considerable period of time now but are constantly dealt with setbacks.
Eddie Howe has been the overwhelming favourite but, as time goes on, it feels less likely that he’ll arrive at Parkhead.
What’s the word?
Celtic were in advanced talks with Howe last week but a number of complications have since put a move in doubt. It’s understood that the 43-year-old isn’t keen on returning to management until the summer, while backroom issues are also running large.
The Hoops were on the verge of appointing Fergal Harkin as their new director of football but Howe wants Richard Hughes, his former companion at Bournemouth, to be given the role instead.
However, in a major twist to the tale, the 43-year-old could miss out on the job because Hughes doesn’t want to move to Celtic.
Those are the words of Frank McAvennie, who was speaking to Football Insider this week. In an incredible reveal, he said: “From what I’m told he’s wanting a director of football and I don’t think Hughes wants to come back up here from Bournemouth.
“I know he’s from here, he’s a Celtic supporter but I don’t think he wants to bring his kids up here. That’s the problem but at the moment it doesn’t look to me like it’s going to happen.”
Strange turn of events
This is news which is unlikely to be very well received by Celtic supporters at all. With Neil Lennon departing and swiftly being followed out of the exit door by Nick Hammond, it looked as though the Hoops were finally banishing their woes and beginning to start a new chapter.
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With Dominic McKay replacing Peter Lawwell as CEO this summer, there was set to be a new structure which was going to revive Celtic and make them a better-run football team and business.
The club doesn’t even have a new manager but the man thought to be the favourite for the job is already causing problems for Dermot Desmond.
The future is incredibly unclear for the Bhoys and this news could put yet another cloud over a dark and dingy campaign at Paradise.
Howe’s credentials are eye-catching, having taken Bournemouth from League Two to the Premier League, but he seems to have one major drawback - he wants Hughes with him. If the latter doesn’t want to move to Scotland, then it feels unlikely that Howe will be Celtic’s new manager.
With the search heading into yet another week, many supporters may be worried about the direction in which their club is heading.
Now more than ever, they need clarity and closure; not another uncertain set of events.