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As stated by caretaker manager Martin O'Neill, the Columbus Crew head coach is slated to be in the Celtic dugout for this weekend's Scottish Premiership clash versus Heart of Midlothian.

The manager has been part of detailed discussions with the Parkhead side for nearly a week and currently seems poised to complete a contract.

Martin O'Neill has held the role of interim boss for more than four weeks since Brendan Rodgers departed, notching six victories out of seven games, narrowing the lead at the top in the league table while also steering the team to Premier Sports Cup final spot.

The 73-year-old, a former boss of Celtic from 2000 and 2005, had already indicated he thought Sunday's visit to Easter Road – a 2-1 victory – would be his final act in his return at the helm.

However, the interim boss disclosed he will lead the team in the midweek Premiership match with Dens Park prior to Wilfried Nancy assumes control.

"He's the person who will be taking over," stated O'Neill to the radio station. "I assumed my time was up last weekend, however there remains paperwork yet to be completed. Wednesday is certainly my final game."

A Bizarre Experience

"It has been surreal," O'Neill continued. "It feels like a chapter of your life where you think 'did all of that really happen?' Am I pleased to have taken it on? Without a doubt."

Should the Hoops beat their opponents while Hearts see off Kilmarnock on Wednesday, the incoming boss could guide his new club to the top of the Premiership with a victory during his opening fixture as manager.

"That's a good fixture for him versus Hearts," remarked O'Neill. "A nice introduction. It will be a difficult game naturally and I wish him all the best. At the very least he inherits a side with a bit of self-belief."

The team's morale stems from the interim manager's results on the field over the past month or so, where he has suffered just one defeat – a 3-1 loss away to the Danish side during Europa League.

However, the former Irish national team boss and his players subsequently managed to achieve a first victory on the road in Europe since way back in 2021 with a win over Feyenoord 3-1 last week.

A Confidence Boost

"We were defeated to them," O'Neill recalled. "That was a hard fixture – a few weeks before they defeated Nottingham Forest, making it a challenge. To travel to Feyenoord and secure a victory on their patch was fantastic. We have given ourselves a chance, with three games left to try to qualify, however, the victory in Rotterdam was key for belief."

Future Ambitions

When asked for his thoughts on his spell as interim boss, O'Neill stated it has led to consideration about whether he desires to carry on managing in the future.

"I honestly am unsure," he admitted. "I'll take a moment to reflect on everything after Wednesday evening."

"It was not simple," he added. "There was apprehension about failing – that is an ever-present major worry. I used to boast that I was capable of doing this job equally as badly as many other gaffers."

"I have learned much. I have had some excellent coaching staff alongside me and it has served as a reinvigoration for me in many ways, dealing with young people every day."

Consultancy Role?

Regarding if he might remain at Celtic in a consultancy role, the former Leicester, Aston Villa and Ireland boss stated this is entirely up to Nancy.

"That decision is really for the incoming manager to decide," O'Neill stated. "He must be allowed his own space. If he wants my advice on matters, that's fine. If he doesn't, that is okay either. It's very much his team the moment he enters the role."

Presenter Jim White ended the interview if O'Neill if he would be emotional once the final whistle sounded in the Dundee game.

"Are you asking if I will get tearful?" O'Neill responded. "Don't be ridiculous."