Roy Keane is poised to become the next Celtic manager.
The Ireland assistant manager has been offered the chance to succeed Neil Lennon at Parkhead and the club is now set to hold talks with the FAI about an early release from his contract.
Ireland manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed that he was approached by Celtic chairman Dermot Desmond earlier this week to ask permission to speak with Keane about the job.
O'Neill: "I have spoken to Roy. I had a call the other day from Dermot Desmond to speak to Roy if it was at all possible"
— Daniel McDonnell (@McDonnellDan) May 29, 2014
O'Neill asked if Keane was offered the job. Said he believes he's just had an informal chat with Celtic.
— Daniel McDonnell (@McDonnellDan) May 29, 2014
O'Neill has admitted that he would be disappointed if his assistant manager chooses to move to Parkhead, but also accepts that the offer could be too good for Keane to turn down.
O'Neill: "I'd be disappointed if he's gone but a club like Celtic is a very big club and these particular offers may not come around often"
— Daniel McDonnell (@McDonnellDan) May 29, 2014
Celtic have released a statement on the managerial situation:
"Following speculation concerning the managers position at Celtic, the club can confirm that it is currently continuing its discussions with a number of excellent candidates. We will continue this process and select who we regard as the best appointment for Celtic. We will update our supporters as soon as this process is complete."
