It has now been more than three weeks since Neil Lennon decided to stand down as manager of Celtic.
The Hoops are still on the hunt for a new manager but it wouldn’t be a great surprise if they waited until the summer to bring in a fresh face.
What’s the word?
Jesse Marsch revealed this week that it was an honour to be linked with the Celtic job.
However, in a fresh twist to their search, there has also been an update in the Hoops’ pursuit of former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard.
That came courtesy of Alex McLeish, who was speaking to Football Insider this week. He said: “I’m hearing whispers that Frank Lampard was seen with the Celtic directors. No matter what, the rumour mill will continue to thrive until an appointment is finally made.
“I think the fans would love a big name. There’s no doubt about it, they’ll be looking for that kind of personality.”
Desmond buzzing
It’s evident that the Bhoys are stepping up their hunt for a new manager, and if they have really met with Lampard, majority shareholder Dermot Desmond should be foaming at the mouth.
Celtic have been linked with a variety of managers from Steve Clarke to Mick McCarthy. However, as McLeish says, a big name would really get the fans off their seats.
Lampard may be relatively inexperienced but he could bring a host of qualities to Parkhead which would suit the Bhoys.
For starters, he gives young players an opportunity, something Lennon seldom offered during his time in Glasgow. Cameron Harper has already left because of a lack of first team opportunities while Karamoko Dembele could leave on a free transfer in the summer for the same reason.
Although Lampard received the sack in west London, he helped to bring players like Reece James, Mason Mount and Tammy Abraham into the limelight.
Therefore, it’s not just Desmond who should be excited at this news; the club’s reserve players should also be thrilled. This could finally be their chance to really make an impact at Parkhead.
In the past, opportunities to impress the first team manager have been limited. That could change if Lampard is chosen as Lennon's long-term successor.