John Hartson has revealed his Celtic manager shortlist with two Manchester United legends among his personal contenders.
Hartson reckons that Roy Keane and Mark Hughes should be among the runners and riders to replace Neil Lennon in the Parkhead hot seat.
The former Hoops striker also gave special mention to Eddie Howe, while admitting Steve Clarke would be his first pick when speaking to Off the Ball.
Keane, who has not taken on a role as manager since 2011 but was offered Parkhead job in 2014, was lauded by the Welshman.
He said: "He would be well-respected among the players, he would have learned a lot in terms of what he has achieved up to now.
When asked if he was concerned about Keane having not managed in a decade, he said: “No not really.
"He has come from an assistant role. I wouldn't be concerned. You know me, if I didn't think Roy was the person that could galvanise the team and get them going, get them organised, then I would be the first one to say that.
"I think Roy would be good."
The retired striker also tipped Hughes, who Hartson worked under with the Welsh national side, who has been out of work since leaving Southampton in 2018.
He went on: "He brings in a staff with him, Eddie Niedzwiecki, Mark Bowen, he had three ninth placed finishes with Stoke in the Premier League and has managed at Blackburn. He took Wales to a play-off, beaten to Russia, he’s been at Manchester City, he’s been at QPR.
"I think Sparky's doesn't leave a stone unturned in terms of his preparation on the training ground and his methods on the training ground, whether or not he would be looked at I don’t know.”
Hartson also believes that former Bournemouth boss, who has been a consistent favourite among the bookmakers, would be a good appointment.
However, noted that Steve Clarke would be his preferred choice as boss if he can be tempted to leave the Scotland job by Dermot Desmond and incoming chief executive Dominic McKay.
"He [Howe] played brilliant football at Bournemouth, kept them in the Premier League. Played exciting football on the front foot with Callum Wilson and Josh King, these types of players.
"He had good defences as well at Bournemouth. I think he would be good as he is looking for a job, and is actively looking I understand.
"Steve Clarke would be my number one to go to, if he was available, but obviously he is in charge of Scotland.
"He did a fantastic job at Kilmarnock, and has worked with the best in the past in terms of learning and picked up from the best. He’s got Scotland in the Euro’s and we will see how Scotland do there.
"He would be someone for me if I had the opportunity, and was picking a manager, I would pick someone like Steve Clarke."
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