Celtic have finally announced the appointment of Martin O'Neill on a one-year deal with the option of a further year. O'Neill won the double with the Bhoys while serving as the interim boss, but fans will need no reminding of his previous success with the club.
The 74-year-old was unsure about taking the role full-time due to the energy it requires to run a club of Celtic's side day-in, day-out, but he has agreed to take the role on for at least another year in a move that will delight fans.
The deal was agreed earlier this week, but the club have made fans wait, which has not gone down well, especially after the controversy involving the talks with Robbie Keane. But the appointment has now been announced, and Celtic can crack on with their summer transfer business.
O'Neill's message to Celtic and the fans
Speaking to club media after being confirmed as the next Hoops manager, O'Neill said: "It is once again a great privilege for me to continue as Celtic manager. Last season will live long in all our memories and to be part of that success has in a big way whetted the appetite to work again for more days like those and bring our supporters those moments.
“Of course, none of this could have been achieved without the players and staff and I want to take this opportunity to thank them for bringing that level of focus, determination and talent to bear at the conclusion of the season to deliver the league and Cup double.
“I would particularly like to thank the Board for asking me back and giving me this opportunity again. We know of course that Celtic can never rest on past success so we are now aiming to drive forward together in the coming season as we aim to deliver again for the club and our fans.
“I thank our fans for their ongoing support, it means everything to us. I look forward to being back at Celtic Park next season when we will come together and we will strive again to bring our fans the success which that support deserves.”
Somewhere in there, there is a clear message to the Celtic board to invest in this squad, with the warning that the club cannot rest on past success.
Celtic Interim Chairman, Brian Wilson added: “I warmly welcome Martin's re-appointment and look forward to more of the same leadership, inspiration and success he has delivered for the club.
“The achievements which he and the team secured in the season just gone have created a great platform for the one that lies ahead.
“This is the start of a busy summer and we will ensure that we are in the best possible position to compete, with Martin back at the helm.”
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