Emerging Irish Coach Reportedly A Shock Celtic Target In Manager Hunt

With Martin O'Neill only in the job on an interim basis, it is likely that Celtic will step up their chase for their next permanent manager over the coming weeks.

A number of familiar names have been linked with the role in the aftermath of Brendan Rodgers' departure. The likes of Robbie Keane, Kieran McKenna, Kjetil Knutsen, and Wilfried Nancy have all been suggested as potential targets for the club.

Despite those rumours, no frontrunner has emerged in the race as of yet. That could change as we head into the November international break, with one Irishman now being suggested as a potential shock target.

READ ALSO: FAI Vote To Bring Israel Suspension Motion To UEFA As US Senator Threatens Ireland

READ ALSO: Heimir Hallgrímsson Defends Sammie Szmodics After Backlash From Ireland Fans

Emerging Irish Coach A Shock Target For Celtic In Managerial Hunt

Football journalist Alan Nixon is reporting that Celtic have included Irishman Brian Barry-Murphy on the shortlist to become their next permanent manager.

The Cork native, who is the son of legendary GAA dual star Jimmy Barry-Murphy, was only handed his second senior managerial role earlier this year when he was appointed as the head coach of Cardiff City.

He has since led them to an impressive start in League One, sitting two points off top spot with a game in hand. The club have also reached the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup. Barry-Murphy previously had a spell in charge of Rochdale from 2019-2021, before spending time in the Manchester City youth setup.

Celtic are not the only club with an eye on his progress in Wales. Middlesbrough are also said to be interested in the 47-year old, with the Championship side having lost previous manager Rob Edwards to Wolves over the weekend.

It is thought the Championship club would be a more likely destination at this point, although that could change if Celtic move him to the top of their wish list. The Scottish champions also have strong links to the City Group, where the former Ireland U21 international was employed prior to his move to Cardiff.

It remains to be seen if either club will make a serious push for Brian Barry-Murphy over the coming days, although the fact that his name is being linked with such roles points towards the fine start he has made to his career in management.

With the likes of Keith Andrews, Alan Sheehan, and Conor Hourihane also impressing in their new managerial roles, it looks like it could be an exciting time for Irish coaches over the coming years.

Click here to read article