Confident Erik Sviatchenko believes Celtic could wrestle back the title from Rangers next season if they appoint John Kennedy as the club's next manager.
The 37-year-old remains in interim charge as his case for the role on a permanent basis could be boosted if he dumps the Ibrox side out of the Scottish Cup next week.
Eddie Howe has been in talks with the Celtic board in recent weeks but no agreement has yet been reached with the former Bournemouth manager.
And former Celtic star Sviatchenko has told the club's hierarchy there is no time to waste in their bid to unseat a Rangers side who raced to the earliest title in Scottish football history this season.
Speaking to the Sunday Post, the Midtjylland star said: “I keep an eye on what’s going at Celtic.
“I’m aware of the managerial situation and the links with Eddie Howe, and he is one of several names to be linked with taking over from Neil Lennon.
“He has an excellent record from his time in England at Bournemouth. But there hasn’t been a full agreement, as yet.
“There are a number of key roles needing to be filled, and other changes have already been made.
“The job of head coach is, arguably, the most-important role at any football club.
“And, for me, the answer to that one is staring right at them – it’s John Kennedy.
“I worked under John, and he knows his football. He is very good tactically and is an excellent communicator.
“He also has the respect of the players, so he deserves a chance, in my opinion.
“John understands the demands of the job, and what Celtic is all about.
“When I look at the likes of Manchester United giving the job to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and Arsenal bringing in Mikel Arteta, it’s positive to see former players being given the main roles.
“Football clubs always like to bring their own players from the Academy into the first team. They like to show there is a road to the highest level.
“It should be the same with coaches, and it would be a great message to show that Celtic coaches have a pathway to the top job.
“John can start right now, so why not do it? There is no time to waste. Making his appointment permanent brings stability, and everyone can move forward.
“Of course, the big question then becomes: ‘Can John win the League next season?’. That is very hard to predict – but it is possible.
“Much will depend on the players that he, or any new head coach, can bring in. Recruitment is vital and there will be a number of players leaving Celtic.
“You need to try and replace them with higher quality."
