Are the pieces finally beginning to fall into place for Celtic? Time will tell what happens with the Bhoys’ hunt for a new manager but they have finally received a boost.
What’s the word?
According to journalist Duncan Castles, a pretty major twist is beginning to unravel in Celtic’s Eddie Howe saga.
The 43-year-old was in advanced talks with the Hoops but he has now also spoken to Crystal Palace about the vacancy. That being said, Castles had fresh news for supporters regarding what the Premier League side were trying to achieve.
Speaking on the Transfer Window Podcast, he said: “It’s my understanding that they’ve (Crystal Palace) been in contact with Frank Lampard, which I think is not a great surprise given that he is available after being dismissed by Chelsea.
“Obviously, a Londoner, based in London, you can see the kind of appeal of bringing Lampard to Crystal Palace, what that would have for the ownership there.”
Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Howe was on a three-man shortlist for the role at Selhurst Park; a list that clearly also includes Lampard.
Major boost
Earlier this year it looked as though Lampard had emerged as a contender to take over at Celtic.
The thought of a rivalry ensuing with Steven Gerrard was incredibly mouthwatering. That being said, it’s now Howe that’s in the box seat to become the new manager at Parkhead.
Talks have taken place, the former Bournemouth boss has performed due diligence on behind-the-scenes matters and he also has some backroom staff he wants to bring with him.
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News that Crystal Palace were trying to lure him away from Paradise, therefore, was not good news for Celtic.
However, if the London outfit are now talking to Lampard instead, it can only be a good thing for Dermot Desmond’s pursuit of Howe.
The Englishman isn’t willing to return to management until the summer but this news will limit where he could end up in the summer.
A number of issues remain to be ironed out but a resolution could finally be on the cards.
After the saga that’s played out over the last few weeks with Howe, supporters should be buzzing that the pathway for his potential arrival at Celtic is becoming clearer.