Over the years, it has not been rare for those at Celtic to make the move down south. Most of the time, it is the players who depart Parkhead. Even right now, the likes of Daizen Maeda, Nicolas Kuhn, Cameron Carter-Vickers and more are believed to be drawing interest from the English game. And now, it looks like there could be a behind-the-scenes exit on the cards as well.
It is not just the Premier League that is attractive for those at Celtic. Many have chosen to head to the Championship as well. Recent examples include Ryan Christie, who is now established in the top flight, Rocco Vata, Daniel Kelly and more.
Darren O'Dea is currently Celtic’s Professional Player Pathway Manager. But it looks like he is eyeing a move to the Championship to take on a coaching role.
Earlier, rumours had broken out about Swansea City being interested in O'Dea. And now, the speculation has been pretty much confirmed by Brendan Rodgers himself.
Brendan Rodgers confirms Celtic man is considering exit
As reported by CeltsAreHere, Rodgers said while speaking to the media:
"Yes, I spoke to Darren yesterday on that. He came to see me and get my thoughts on what that would be, what it would look like.
“Obviously, I know Swansea as a club and a city better than most.
“So, yes, I think that there may well be a possibility of him to go as a coach. I think in his heart, he still sees himself as that.
“Probably the role he’s in now is probably only do-able at a club like Celtic. But I think his heart is in coaching and maybe the possibility to manage later on.
“So, yes, he just asked my opinion on it. And, yes, so we’ll see what happens on that."
O'Dea came through the youth ranks at Celtic and even made 70 senior appearances for the club. But ultimately, he was not able to establish himself at Parkhead and ended up leaving. The Irish international had a bit of a journeyman career that saw him play in Scotland, England, India and beyond.
Now, it looks like his coaching journey is set to take him to Wales. It is quite clear that he is highly regarded by Swansea City, who under new ownership, are looking to make a push to get promoted to the Premier League. Will O'Dea be part of that? We will find out soon. It is clear that he is considering the opportunity, that is for sure.