DEPARTING CELTIC BOSS Ronny Deila has backed Roy Keane to replace him as manager of the club.
Ireland assistant boss Keane has been heavily linked with the role of late, with Boys in Green manager Martin O’Neill suggesting he would not stand in the former Manchester United player’s way should he opt to join Celtic.
Keane was also linked with the top job at the Scottish club two years ago, before Deila eventually took charge, and the Norwegian coach believes he has the right credentials for the position.
“”I loved watching him and he’s a strong character. I’ve spoken with him just once at an Everton game,” Deila told The Daily Record.
“But he’s Irish, of course, and he’s played for Celtic. He knows what this club are all about. So he has the skill set that could be good in this job.
“I think he would have things that I didn’t. And maybe I have things that he doesn’t. It’s about what the club want and if they pick Roy they will know what they’re getting.
(Major shareholder) Dermot (Desmond) is a very intelligent guy and along with (chief executive) Peter (Lawwell) and the board I’m confident they will pick the right person for Celtic.
“Roy would certainly handle the pressure, I’m sure. But you’ll have to have your helmets on!”
Deila added that Keane, who made over 300 appearances during a highly successful 12-year stint at Man United, was very popular in his native Norway.
The view of Keane in Norway? He’s a legend when it comes to football. There are so many Manchester United fans there.
“I have a cousin in Norway who would die for him. He just loves him.
“Keane was a big star in Norway, a big, big player.”
