Teddy Sheringham has claimed that Martin O’Neill “does not want to carry on” as Celtic manager following a successful but demanding season at the club.
Sheringham, a former Tottenham teammate of Robbie Keane, went further by guaranteeing that Keane will one day take charge at Parkhead amid growing speculation over his appointment.
The 74-year-old O’Neill led Celtic to a Premiership and Scottish Cup double during what was described as a tumultuous campaign for the Glasgow club.
O’Neill is set to hold talks with Dermot Desmond over his future, while Shaun Maloney, who served on O’Neill’s interim coaching staff, is under serious consideration for a sporting director role at Celtic.
Speculation over Keane’s potential arrival has intensified following his decision to step down from his position as Ferencvaros manager.
Keane joined the Hungarian side from Maccabi Tel Aviv in 2024 and led Ferencvaros to a league title and domestic cup across his two seasons in charge, along with a deep run in last year’s Europa League.
He also lifted the title during his time in Israel, building a record of success across multiple European football environments before his departure from Ferencvaros.
Speaking to Boyle Sports, Sheringham said: “Next Celtic manager? It has got to be Robbie Keane. His name was on the tip of my tongue the minute I heard the question. He has been around Europe.”
Sheringham added: “He has done well. He has been working in Israel and Hungary for a few years now. The question is whether he would want to come back so soon when he is out there gaining his experience in other countries.”
The former striker continued: “I am sure Robbie is already on Celtic’s radar, whether it will be to offer him the job now or in the future. I just think it is a shame Martin O’Neill does not want to carry on, but he did look tired at the end of the cup final at the weekend.”
Sheringham concluded his assessment by saying: “He looked shattered. It takes a lot out of you being a manager, doesn’t it not? I do not know if the time is right for him now, but Robbie Keane will be Celtic manager one day.”
Celtic are understood to be preparing for a significant summer restructure as the club looks to determine the shape of its football leadership heading into the next season.
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