Roy Keane Plays Down Celtic Links as Pressure Mounts on Martin O'Neill After Old Firm Loss

Speculation surrounding Celtic's managerial situation intensified following their derby defeat to Rangers at Celtic Park, with former midfielder Roy Keane's presence in the stands sparking widespread debate across Scottish football.

Keane Dismisses Celtic Rumours

Despite suggestions that Keane could be in line to take over if Martin O'Neill departs, the former Manchester United and Celtic midfielder moved to downplay the chatter. Keane clarified that he would never attend a match with the ulterior motive of taking another manager's job, simply describing Celtic's loss as part of the normal "ups and downs of football."

The scrutiny on O'Neill has grown following his comments hinting that it "might be time to wrap it up." Reports indicate that despite publicly defending Celtic's summer recruitment, O'Neill has been privately frustrated by squad depth, admitting behind closed doors that the current group is weaker than the team that finished last season.

Meanwhile, former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie took aim at assistant Shaun Maloney, criticising his touchline demeanour during difficult fixtures and claiming the coach is visibly active only when the team is ahead.

Potter Urges Patience at Hibernian

At Easter Road, interim head coach John Potter stressed that Hibernian must take their time to appoint the right successor to David Gray rather than rushing into a decision. The squad is heading for a warm-weather training camp while the hierarchy continues its search for a permanent manager.

Elsewhere in Edinburgh, 20-year-old Hibs forward Owen Elding expressed his excitement following his maiden call-up to the Republic of Ireland squad, calling it a massive opportunity after administrative delays and red tape issues were finally cleared ahead of upcoming fixtures against Kosovo, Israel, and Austria.

Marshall Stays Put, Makhanya Earns High Praise

In the North East, Aberdeen midfielder Findlay Marshall revealed his relief after receiving confirmation that he will remain at Pittodrie this season instead of heading out on loan, viewing the decision as a critical boost in his push to cement a regular place in the first team.

Across Glasgow, former Rangers midfielder Andy Halliday offered glowing praise for Ibrox defender Olwethu Makhanya, describing him as a "Rolls-Royce" player and predicting that top-flight suitors will soon be circling if his impressive performances continue.