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Celtic have confirmed Martin O’Neill as their permanent manager following a Scottish Premiership and Cup double, with former striker Kenny Miller telling GOAL why the 74-year-old veteran remains the ideal choice to lead one of football’s most demanding jobs. Miller outlined the key attributes O’Neill continues to bring to Parkhead after what he described as a wise managerial decision by the club.

O’Neill’s return to the dugout came after two interim spells, both ending in success. Following Brendan Rodgers’ departure in late October 2025, O’Neill initially stepped in temporarily, guiding the team through eight matches. He was recalled in early January after Wilfried Nancy’s short-lived 33-day stint in Glasgow ended abruptly.

Under O’Neill’s leadership, Celtic secured one of their most dramatic league titles, edging Hearts on the final day, before lifting the Scottish Cup with victory over Dunfermline at Hampden Park. His achievements earned him a one-year deal, with an option to extend for another 12 months.

Having previously managed Leicester City, Aston Villa, and Nottingham Forest, O’Neill knows well the intensity of the Old Firm environment. His earlier five-year spell at Celtic Park, between 2000 and 2005, cemented his reputation as a manager who thrives under pressure.

Discussing whether O’Neill is the right man to guide Celtic forward despite his age, former Hoops striker Miller, speaking on behalf of BetGoodwin, told GOAL: “The thing with Martin is that he’s seen it all in football. He stepped into Celtic twice this season under tough circumstances—especially the second time—and led them to both the league and the cup. For long stretches, it looked unlikely they’d lift the league trophy again, but he turned it around.”

“What I’d say is that there’s a winning mentality within that squad. They just needed someone with his experience to steady things. Alongside him, he’s got Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham—two young, hungry, and capable coaches who’ll support him fully. That setup allows him to manage effectively at his age.”

“He doesn’t look like he’s slowing down! You can see it on the touchline—he still looks like he did 25 years ago. The key is that he’s built a strong team around him, people who can contribute and help him be the best version of himself as a manager.”

“He’s got two coaches beside him who absolutely adore him and would do anything for him. I’m sure the players feel the same. Some of them, like Callum McGregor, James Forrest, and Kieran Tierney, grew up watching his Celtic sides play. Having those people around—who love the club and came through its system—is hugely important.”

Celtic had previously been linked with former Tottenham and Liverpool striker Robbie Keane, who impressed in managerial roles with Maccabi Tel Aviv and Ferencvaros. When asked if Keane might have been overlooked for now as he continues to build experience in British football, Miller said the club made a pragmatic choice by retaining O’Neill.

“It might seem like a safe appointment,” Miller explained, “but why wouldn’t you want someone who’s just delivered a double? It made perfect sense. Clubs like Rangers and Celtic must always aim for the best manager available, and the fans expect that. But going through a thorough process is also vital.”

“It didn’t surprise me that they went back to Martin. Towards the end of last season, I even said that stability might be the sensible route. Celtic have traditionally benefitted from that. It’s one of their advantages over Rangers—Brendan Rodgers had two or three seasons, Ange Postecoglou had a similar run. Keeping consistency is key.”

“If Martin were to leave and someone new came in, you just never know how things would unfold. Right now, stability is what Celtic need. So, it made perfect sense for them to ask Martin to stay on another year.”

A two-time European Cup winner from his playing days at Nottingham Forest, O’Neill has long been a charismatic figure perfectly suited to the Celtic job. With nine trophies already under his belt as Celtic manager, his track record speaks for itself.

While it remains uncertain how long O’Neill will continue before retiring, fans have every reason to believe there are more good times ahead for Celtic under his stewardship before he eventually passes the managerial baton.