Ange Postecoglou has already got Celtic return green light as Brendan Rodgers resigns

Ange Postecoglou has been backed to return to Celtic after Brendan Rodgers resigned as the Scottish side’s manager.

Celtic confirmed late on Monday evening that Rodgers, 52, has stepped down from his position two years after returning to Celtic Park. The Northern Irishman began his second spell in charge in June 2023, four years after his initial departure from the club.

Rodgers led Celtic to four Scottish Premiership titles but leaves with the Bhoys trailing league leaders Hearts by eight points after nine games of the season. Celtic were beaten 3-1 by Hearts on Sunday.

A club statement confirmed: “Celtic Football Club can confirm that football manager Brendan Rodgers has today tendered his resignation. It has been accepted by the club and Brendan will leave his role with immediate effect.

“The club appreciates Brendan’s contribution to Celtic during his two very successful periods at the club. Brendan leaves Celtic with our thanks for the role he has played during a period of continued success for the club and we wish him further success in the future.

“The process to appoint a new permanent manager is underway and the club will update supporters further on this as soon as possible. We are pleased that during this interim period former Celtic manager, Martin O’Neill and former Celtic player, Shaun Maloney have agreed to take charge of Celtic first-team matters. Further details will be confirmed shortly.”

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Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Postecoglou has already been tipped to return to the club. Ex-Hoops striker Chris Sutton raised the possibility just last week, when pressure on Rodgers was reaching breaking point.

Sutton said on BBC Radio 5 Live: “It could happen, I mean, would I like to see him back? Yeah, eventually, why not? I really enjoyed Angeball.

“Well, I think Brendan will leave at the end of the season – if [Postecoglou] just slots in next season, I would love to see Big Ange back.

“He’s respected at Celtic, the job he did. Brilliant, Angeball, what a brand of football.“

Postecoglou is a free agent having been ruthlessly sacked by Nottingham Forest earlier this month after just 40 days in the job. The Australian managed just eight matches before being given his marching orders.

The 60-year-old, who led Spurs to an incredible Europa League triumph in May, won two Premiership titles during his time at Celtic, as well as two Scottish League Cups and a Scottish Cup.