Bhoys begin search for new gaffer

09 May 2010 16:58
Celtic have announced the process of appointing a new manager is formally under way following their final game of the season at Hearts.[LNB] Chairman John Reid issued a statement in which he revealed the club had delayed making a decision on who should replace Tony Mowbray until interim boss Neil Lennon had been given the opportunity to prove his own credentials.[LNB]Reid said in a statement on the club's website, celticfc.net: "On behalf of the Celtic board and supporters, I want to extend my thanks to Neil Lennon and his team for taking on the daunting challenge of completing the SPL season and for the way in which this was done.[LNB]"The board will now turn to the formal process of considering the appointment of a new manager.[LNB]"We intentionally delayed starting that process until today out of fairness and courtesy to Neil.[LNB]"This is a big and important decision, and will require a thorough consideration.[LNB]"But I am well aware that our fans would like us to complete the process as speedily as possible - commensurate with full consideration - and we will try to do that."[LNB]Despite having no prior managerial experience, Lennon is the favourite to land the job permanently after winning all eight of his SPL games in charge, including Tuesday night's last Old Firm derby of the campaign.[LNB]The one black mark against the 38-year-old - admittedly a huge one - was last month's shock Active Nation Scottish Cup semi-final defeat to Ross County, which left the club without a trophy for the first time in seven years.[LNB]Former Parkhead captain Lennon, who was elevated from his role as reserve team coach, said: "When I took on the job as caretaker manager, the chairman assured me that there would be no consideration of anyone for that position until I had completed the job I had been given and showed what I could do.[LNB]"I am grateful to the board that I was able to carry out my role with the benefit of that assurance.[LNB]"I fully appreciate that this means that they have now to start going through that process of consideration and, like everyone else, I hope that that can be completed as soon as possible.[LNB]"Whatever happens, I will always be grateful to have been given the chance to manage the club that I love."

Source: Team_Talk