Celtic interim manager John Kennedy is in the running to take over from Neil Lennon on a permanent basis.

That’s according to a report from Give Me Sport, who were provided with information regarding the Hoops’ search for a new boss.

They suggested on Friday night that the 37-year-old could significantly boost his chances over the next 48 hours with a win against rivals Rangers in the Scottish Cup.

Kennedy, who prefers a 4-4-2 system, is unbeaten in the five games as caretaker manager. He’s already faced Steven Gerrard’s side, drawing 1-1 in the Scottish Premiership last month.

Transfer Tavern take

It seems as if Celtic are closing in on Manchester City’s Fergal Harkin as their new director of football, and alongside incoming chief executive Dominic McKay, the pair could play key roles when it comes to appointing a new manager.

It seems as if Kennedy can boost his chances of landing the role on a full-time basis by lifting some silverware, but to us, the club should be looking elsewhere.

By all means, try and keep Kennedy around at Celtic Park as part of the backroom staff, but with no senior experience in management, it could be a huge risk.

Appointing someone like Eddie Howe, who has been heavily linked with the vacant position, may be the smarter option, as he has success of rebuilding a side and over 500 games of experience.

In other news: Celtic open to Odsonne Edouard swap deal involving £57k-p/w ace, find out more here.