Celtic are "close" to agreements with Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham to return to the club as part of Martin O’Neill’s backroom team.
O’Neill was confirmed as permanent manager on a one-year contract, with the option of a further year, last week, but uncertainty has lingered over the composition of his coaching staff.
The Celtic Way has reported that while initial talks with Maloney and Fotheringham were some distance apart, progress has now been made and a deal is close. The pair played a key role in last season’s league and cup double, and O’Neill has made clear his desire to keep them involved.
Speaking after last month’s Scottish Cup final, O’Neill said: “I would hope that whatever happens, they would consider the coaching staff that I've had because they have been brilliant.
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“They’ve all been great helps to me. I'm sure now at this minute they might think about it or they might ask my opinion on the thing. They’re hugely capable. The players like them.”
Meanwhile, first-team coach Gavin Strachan is expected to depart after six years at the club to join James Morrison’s coaching set-up at West Bromwich Albion.
The first group of Celtic players will return to Lennoxtown next Friday for initial fitness testing ahead of pre-season, which includes a training camp and friendlies in Ireland and Portugal.
Once Maloney and Fotheringham’s returns are finalised, focus will shift to what is expected to be a busy summer transfer window, with multiple incomings and outgoings anticipated.
Celtic’s first competitive fixture of the 2026/27 campaign comes in 45 days’ time, when they host Dundee in their Premiership opener on August 3. A Champions League play-off tie follows on August 18.
