McNamara and Clarke part of three-way battle for Celtic job

Ronny Deila may remain the manager of Celtic at the time of writing but, after home defeat to newly-promoted Hamilton in the Scottish Premiership, the appointment of the inexperienced Norwegian coach to the Parkhead hotseat is already coming under question.

The Bhoys currently sit down in sixth and some six points off the pace, albeit with a game in hand, after a run of just two wins from their last six domestic fixtures.

With that in mind we’ve spoken to those in the know on the Ladbrokes trading floor to bring you the odds on the ‘Magnificent Seven’ managers linked with the role and the price offered on any one of these experienced football men riding in to the rescue before the end of the season.

Derek McInnes @ 12/1

Something of a non-starter in some quarters given his previous affiliation to Glasgow Rangers as a player, McInnes nevertheless boasts a solid record of success north of the border, having guided St Johnstone to promotion as well as winning the Scottish League Cup with Aberdeen last year.

Henrik Larsson @ 12/1

Currently enjoying his time at Falkenbergs, having helped the club gain promotion to the Swedish top-flight, Larsson cited a lack of experience as the main reason he did not move to Parkhead over the summer and it would require a big money offer to get him to reconsider his stance.

Roy Keane @ 12/1

Held talks with those behind the scenes at Celtic Park but opted to remain in his current dual role with Ireland and Aston Villa. The board would need to break the bank for Keane via a big contract offer and transfer war chest and neither looks likely on present form.

David Moyes @ 8/1

Keen to rebuild his reputation after a dismal stint at Manchester United, as a former Celtic player, a move to Parkhead could be ideal for Moyes, who has previously worked well within a budget. His failings in Europe, however, could see the Scottish champions look elsewhere though.

Owen Coyle @ 4/1

Well-travelled north of the border as a player, Coyle made his name as manager of St Johnstone and also impressed in helping Burnley into the Premier League. A canny boss keen to take on a fresh challenge, Coyle could be the man to get the Bhoys back to where they belong in the league.

Jackie McNamara @ 4/1

The outstanding candidate from all of the managers based in Scotland, McNamara has done wonders with Dundee United, blooding in some great young players and completing several bargain signings. Played over 250 games for Celtic and looks arguably the best fit for the job.

Steve Clarke @ 4/1

Once the favourite to succeed Neil Lennon at Parkhead, Clarke’s excellent first season at West Brom, coupled with coaching stints at Newcastle, West Ham, Chelsea and Liverpool gives him a wealth of experience domestically and in Europe that could benefit Celtic – would jump at the chance to manage the club.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.

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