Fresh Celtic coaching rumour sparks major talking point at Parkhead

Tony Watt has thrown his support behind the idea of Martin O’Neill remaining in charge at Celtic, insisting the influence of Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham has been a key factor in the club’s recent resurgence.

Speaking on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, the former Celtic striker backed the decision to keep O’Neill on after his interim spell, following a strong finish to the season that saw the Hoops lift both the Premiership title and Scottish Cup.

Watt believes the coaching team around O’Neill has played a major role in stabilising the squad during a difficult period and helping deliver silverware when it mattered most.

He said: “I think the fact that he’s doing the year speaks a lot about his drive and motivation. I think he’s probably the right candidate at the moment, and having Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham is big.”

Watt was full of praise for Maloney’s standing at the club, highlighting his importance both past and present, while also backing Fotheringham’s growing reputation as a highly regarded coach within the game.

“Maloney’s probably a Celtic legend, or at least a big figure in the recent past,” he added. “Fotheringham, from what you hear, is a very good coach and the players love him.”

He also suggested both men have played roles that extend beyond the touchline, hinting they are central figures in the wider football operation around the squad.

For Watt, continuity is now crucial, especially after a turbulent spell under previous management. He believes O’Neill offers the stability Celtic need heading forward.

“I think Martin O’Neill is the right choice at the moment. Stability is important after what happened before,” he said.

Watt also stressed that O’Neill should be given greater control in the transfer market to strengthen the squad further, pointing to his experience and eye for talent.

“Now I’d like to see him given freedom in the transfer market to bring in players who improve Celtic,” he said.

However, he did not hold back in his criticism of recent behind-the-scenes uncertainty at the club, suggesting the managerial situation had been mishandled and led to unnecessary external pressure.

Fotheringham’s reputation continues to rise within coaching circles, while Maloney’s future role has also been widely discussed, particularly in relation to football operations.

But if Celtic retain their current structure, Watt believes they would be keeping a coaching setup that delivered when it mattered most — with O’Neill at the helm and a trusted backroom team supporting him.