Charlie Mulgrew picks out three managers Celtic should target as potential successors to Martin O’Neill

Charlie Mulgrew has identified three managers he believes Celtic F.C. should consider as potential successors to Martin O’Neill.

O’Neill made a return to management for the first time since 2019 following Brendan Rodgers’ departure, and later resumed the role again after Wilfried Nancy’s brief spell in charge. Despite being 74, he has kept Celtic competitive in the title race and guided the club to a Scottish Cup final.

However, with a long-term replacement expected, attention has turned to possible candidates—and Mulgrew has shared his thoughts.

One of the names he highlighted was Jens Berthel Askou, who has impressed at Motherwell F.C.. Although results have dipped slightly in recent weeks, Mulgrew believes Askou’s style of play and ability to work with limited resources make him an intriguing option for Celtic, particularly with the potential to grow in European competition.

Mulgrew also mentioned Craig Bellamy as a strong candidate. Bellamy, who previously had a loan spell at Celtic, has been linked with the role in the past, although his future remains uncertain after Wales failed to qualify for the World Cup. Mulgrew feels his qualities could make him a good fit despite the pressure that comes with managing the club.

Another name in the frame is Robbie Keane, who has close ties to key figures at Celtic, including Dermot Desmond. Keane has also received backing from O’Neill himself, further strengthening his case. Mulgrew believes both Bellamy and Keane should be seriously considered, while also acknowledging that the demands of the role make it difficult to predict who would ultimately thrive.

Overall, Mulgrew’s suggestions reflect a mix of emerging managerial talent and well-known figures with connections to the club, as Celtic prepare to make an important decision about their future direction.