It feels like the options are quickly running out for Celtic. Several outlets have suggested that Ange Postecoglou wants to take a break from the game after being sacked twice, by Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest, within the space of a few months. The second of those spells only lasted 39 days. On the other hand, Kieran McKenna does not seem to be keen on the idea of leaving Ipswich Town in the middle of the season either.
Those appeared to be two of Celtic's top choices. At the same time, Craig Bellamy is also believed to be looking to remain Wales national team manager, with them still in the running to qualify for the next World Cup.
So, three of the names Celtic have been linked with since Brendan Rodgers' resignation have been ruled out. Of course, there is always the possibility that they could be convinced otherwise and change their minds. But that is somewhat unlikely for the time being.
Another name Celtic have been linked with, but has not gotten as much attention in the media, is that of Nicky Hayen. He is currently the manager of Club Brugge, a club whose model the Hoops should look to follow to bring about more consistent success in Europe.
'Never say never' - Belgian manager reacts to Celtic links
Hayen seems content with life at Club Brugge, where he has won multiple trophies already and is expected to be in contention for more this season. That being said, he has not ruled out a move to Celtic completely either. As reported by Sporza, the Belgian manager said:
"Never say never in football, but I'm happy here. As long as you have mutual trust between the club and me, there's nothing wrong."
From those comments, it is hard to imagine that Hayen will push to leave Club Brugge. But he has not closed the door on a move to Celtic either.
At this point, one has to start wondering if it would make sense for Celtic to keep Martin O'Neill and Shaun Maloney in the job for the remainder of the season and target a long-term appointment in the summer, when more options will be available. It is important to get this move right and rushing into any decision won't help in that.
That will end up depending on how this team does under O'Neill and Maloney. If they can continue producing results, sticking with them might be the best route.