O'Neill Reflects on Role for Experienced Managers
Martin O'Neill has expressed that there remains a place in football management for "older gentlemen," while keeping open the possibility of returning to Celtic in the future.
The 74-year-old manager played a pivotal role in helping Celtic secure the Scottish Premiership title during his two interim spells this season, as the team overtook Hearts to clinch the championship on the final day.
O'Neill is now focused on achieving a league and cup double, with the Scottish Cup final against Dunfermline Athletic scheduled for Saturday. This match is expected to be his last in charge of the club.
Regarding his future, O'Neill emphasized that his attention is solely on the upcoming final rather than what lies ahead. Reflecting on the past eight months, he believes he still has valuable contributions to make in the sport.
"The pleasing thing for me if I truly reflect on it, is there is still a place in this game for older gentlemen," O'Neill told BBC Scotland.
"Despite the tactics that are involved now in the game, I do believe someone with some sort of experience can still play a part in proceedings.
"When I first stepped in way back in October, that was my main concern. Not having managed for some time, there are different ways of playing the game.
"That was my concern, not about destroying anything I might have done 20-odd years ago but being too old to be in this game. That is certainly a great sense of pride for me now."
Potential Successors and Future Discussions
Celtic had been linked with Motherwell's Jens Berthel Askou as a potential managerial candidate; however, Askou is set to join Toulouse. Additionally, Ferencvaros manager Robbie Keane has been mentioned in connection with the role.
O'Neill confirmed that he has not engaged in significant discussions with Celtic's leadership regarding a possible position for the next season.
Asked if there will be any talks following the Scottish Cup final, the Northern Irishman said, "I genuinely do not know" what the coming week will bring.
"I would not have expected anyone to say anything to me anyway," he added.
"The response would have been we have to get Saturday out of the way and we'll see what develops from there."
Match Information
The Scottish Cup final between Celtic and Dunfermline Athletic will be broadcast live on BBC One Scotland and the BBC . Fans can also listen live on and BBC Radio Scotland. Live coverage and updates will be available on the website and app, where supporters can join the conversation.
