Kevin Kilbane admits Wilfried Nancy will be a success at Celtic

Celtic fans have been told ‘exceptional’ Wifried Nancy would be the perfect appointment.

The Hoops hierarchy are working hard behind the scenes to secure a permanent successor for Brendan Rodgers, with the Columbus Crew boss the No1 contender.

Former Republic of Ireland star Kevin Kilbane — who is an MLS pundit and Celtic fan — has offered reassurance to fellow supporters who have any doubts over the main name in the frame.

He has listed a host of key characteristics he would bring to the table and branded his achievements in MLS as ‘remarkable.’

He’s hailed the Frenchman as tactically ‘incredible’ while insisting he is a real players’ coach and if the Hoops can get a deal over the line it could really prove a hit for all involved.

‘He’s an exceptional coach – genuinely – and I think he could go really well at Celtic.’

Speaking to Betway Insider, he said: “Columbus had good players, and they were clearly looking to bring in a coach like him, but you never saw them as serious MLS Cup contenders. And he won it in his first year at Columbus.

“He honestly did remarkable things. Within MLS, what he’s achieved has been outstanding.

“He’s a really, really good coach. I’ve spoken to him quite a lot, actually – had conversations with him on the phone when he was in Montreal.

“Tactically, he’s incredible. Brilliant to speak to. He understands the game, he understands players, he’s a players’ coach. Very calm, doesn’t get overexcited on the touchline, doesn’t go looking for attention.

“So, when I saw him linked with the Celtic job, I knew a lot of Celtic supporters would be asking, “Who’s this guy?”

“But I can assure you – and I’m a Celtic fan myself – I was really happy when I saw his name linked. I thought, if they can get him in, this would be one that sneaks under the radar.

“He’s an exceptional coach – genuinely – and I think he could go really well at Celtic.

“Now, I’m not saying it will happen. I saw this week that Martin O’Neill is being extended in the position until the managerial search is completed.

“But if they get Nancy in, mark my words: it would not be a bad appointment. Far from it.

“Because of what he’s done over here, because of the coach he is, I think he’s ready for the next step. Nancy would be one who could really bring success.”

Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney will continue in their interim roles as the hunt goes on in the background.

They are preparing the champions for the return from the international break as they get set to face St Mirren under the lights in Paisley on Saturday night.

The duo have taken charge of four games to date with two Premiership wins and progress to the Premier Sports Cup Final achieved with an extra-time win over rivals Rangers.

They lost out in the Europa League on the road at FC Midtjylland as they bid to maintain a perfect league record in the dugout at the Buddies.

Wilfried Nancy’s Columbus Crew record

Games – 136

Wins – 71

Draws – 32

Losses – 33

Trophies – MLS Cup Champion 22/23

*Stats from transfermarkt*