Sviatchenko identifies man he wants as next Celtic manager, comments on Howe

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Erik Sviatchenko has told the Sunday Post that he would like to see interim manager John Kennedy given the full-time Celtic job this summer having worked him with him at Parkhead – but also commented on Eddie Howe.

Reports suggest that Howe is edging closer to being announced as the new Celtic manager, as the Hoops continue to search for a permanent successor to Neil Lennon. Kennedy, of course, is also in the running as caretaker boss.

The current manager, 37, enjoyed his best result since taking over the reigns towards the end of February, masterminding a 6-0 win over Livingston. Mo Elyounoussi scored twice, while James Forrest also netted.

Of his five games, though, Kennedy has only won three – drawing with Rangers and Dundee United. The overriding feeling, from pundits and fans, is that Celtic need a manager with a bigger reputation and more experience.

But Sviatchenko is of a different opinion. The 29-year-old FC Midtjylland captain, who played 63 times for Celtic before being sold by Brendan Rodgers in 2018, thinks Kennedy is the man for the job – and commented on Howe.

“I’m aware of the links with Eddie Howe. He is one of several names to be linked with taking over,” Sviatchenko said. “He has an excellent record from his time in England at Bournemouth. But there hasn’t been a full agreement, as yet.

“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 deserves a chance, in my opinion.

“John understands the demands of the job, and what Celtic is all about. 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.”

TBR’s view – Kennedy ideal, apart from one key area

Sviatchenko alludes to it himself. Getting the recruitment right at Celtic is absolutely crucial, more so this summer after a dismal window last time around – with Shane Duffy, Vasilis Barkas, Albian Ajeti and more struggling.

So, they need a manager not only with the right connections – but one that has the reputation to attract players to Celtic, like Steven Gerrard did at Rangers. Does Kennedy have that? No. Does Howe? Yes.