Robbie Keane to Celtic? Simon Jordan weighs in on ultras controversy

Simon Jordan has strongly criticised the backlash from sections of Celtic F.C. supporters regarding the club’s discussions with Robbie Keane over the possibility of becoming the next manager, describing the reaction as “preposterous.”

Keane is understood to have met with major Celtic figure Dermot Desmond this week to discuss the managerial vacancy at Celtic Park, with additional talks expected to follow. Interim boss Martin O’Neill has also reportedly held discussions as the club weighs up its next appointment.

However, the prospect of Keane taking charge has sparked criticism from some fan groups, particularly ultras sections, due to his previous spell managing Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv. The Green Brigade have accused the club of creating division among supporters by entertaining the appointment.

Keane enjoyed success during his lone season in Israel, leading Maccabi Tel Aviv to the league title in the 2023/24 campaign before departing for Hungarian side Ferencváros in January 2025. He later guided the club to Hungarian Cup success, although they narrowly missed out on the league championship.

The former striker also faced criticism in Ireland after choosing to remain at Maccabi Tel Aviv when tensions between Israel and Palestine escalated again in October 2023 — a decision that drew scrutiny and damaged his reputation among some supporters in his home country.

Jordan, though, has dismissed the criticism aimed at Keane and believes Celtic should not allow supporter opposition to influence their decision-making process.

Speaking on talkSPORT alongside host Jim White, Jordan argued that judging Keane for not leaving an Israeli club was unreasonable, branding the criticism “relatively preposterous” and suggesting Celtic’s hierarchy should ignore outside noise when making their final call.