As we get closer to the summer, quite a few are expected to head for the Celtic Park exit door. Of course, this is nothing new and the Hoops are used to adjusting to these departures pretty much every year. And it is not just players who are set to leave Parkhead at the end of the season. There are going to be a few changes behind the scenes as well.
One move has been speculated about for some time. It is that of the club's pathways manager, Darren O'Dea, who is wanted by English Championship club, Swansea City, for a coaching role.
O'Dea has coached Motherwell and Celtic at the U18 level and also the Hoops' B Team. But he does not have experience coaching at the top level. That looks set to change this summer.
As reported by Anthony Joseph, O’Dea has agreed terms with Swansea City to become their new assistant manager. It’s understood that the 38-year-old is expected to join the English Championship club in the summer and will assist new boss Alan Sheehan next season.
Sky Sports man confirms Celtic exit has been agreed
O'Dea's exit is not expected to have a huge impact on how things are running at the senior level for Celtic. That being said, it is never easy to see someone with such a long history with the club depart.
O'Dea came through the youth ranks at Celtic and managed to make more than 50 appearances at the senior level. He was unable to establish himself as a regular starter for the Hoops though and ended up leaving, eventually having a journeyman playing career.
Perhaps O'Dea sees a future for himself in coaching, which is why he has chosen to depart for Swansea City. The Championship club have a new ownership in place and plan to make a push for the Premier League. So, it is an exciting project to be a part of.