Celtic have been linked with a shock move for Kevin Muscat as a potential assistant to prospective new manager Ange Postecoglou [SEN].
The Lowdown: Managerial hunt at Celtic set to come to an end
Hoops fans are still in search of some much-needed clarity over their managerial situation after going more than 100 days without a head coach since the resignation of Neil Lennon back in February [Celtic FC].
However, events have progressed rapidly over the last week. Celtic have reportedly settled a compensation package in order to appoint current Yokohama F Marinos manager Ange Postecoglou [Sky Sports].
Additionally rumoured to have ‘agreed’ personal terms with the Parkhead club, there are reports that he will be confirmed as Celtic boss in the next 72 hours [The Scottish Sun].
The Latest: Muscat could also arrive at Celtic Park
Astonishingly, the Celts could now be set to bring in divisive figure Kevin Muscat alongside Postecoglou within the backroom set-up.
Reputable Australian sports journalist Andy Maher broke the news on Australian broadcast SEN today, stating: “I am told reliably that he (Postecoglou) will be on a plane that night via Athens heading to Glasgow and will be announced as the Celtic coach thereafter upon arrival.
“That is what I’m being reliably informed. Further to that, there is a very good chance, so I’m informed, that Kevin Muscat might be his 2IC (second-in-command).” [SEN].
Formerly associated with A-League side Melbourne Victory, Muscat worked alongside Postecoglou from 2012 to 2013 [Transfermarkt].
The report claims that the 47-year-old could become assistant manager at Celtic, something which may cause uproar due to his status as a former Rangers player [The Scottish Sun].
The Verdict: Muscat could be a contentious appointment
All in, Celtic fans may feel mixed emotions with regards to this potential announcement. On one hand, the Hoops hot seat is set to finally be filled permanently for the first time since February, which will surely delight most of the Parkhead faithful.
Conversely, the reaction to any prospective Muscat arrival would probably be lukewarmly received, to put it lightly. Once labelled by Martin Grainger as “the most hated man in football", he retains a reputation as a contentious character with a long line of controversies within the game [BBC].
Although any unveiling of Muscat will probably not be allowed to go quietly, once the dust settles, the Hoops will be hoping he can exercise his coaching credentials effectively. Evidently a strong character based on his playing career [BBC], he may help to cultivate a siege mentality within the Hoops dressing room.
In other news, Celtic have agreed a fee to sell this player.