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According to caretaker manager Martin O'Neill, Wilfried Nancy is slated to be leading Celtic for Sunday's Premiership fixture versus Hearts.

Columbus Crew's manager has been engaged in detailed discussions with the Parkhead side for nearly seven days and now seems poised to wrap up a contract.

Martin O'Neill has held the role of interim boss for more than four weeks since the previous manager resigned, achieving six victories in seven games, reducing the lead at the top of the league table while also steering the Parkhead outfit to Premier Sports Cup final spot.

The 73-year-old, who previously managed Celtic from 2000 and 2005, had already indicated he believed the match at Hibernian – a 2-1 victory – was likely to be his final act of his second spell at the helm.

However, O'Neill stated he is to oversee the team for Wednesday's league encounter with Dundee prior to Nancy assumes control.

"He is the individual set to be taking over," stated O'Neill to the radio station. "I thought it was over on Sunday, however there remains formalities still to be sorted. The Dundee game will definitely be my last match."

A Bizarre Experience

"It's been unreal," O'Neill continued. "It's like a chapter in one's life where you think 'did all of that really happen?' Am I pleased that I took the role? Most certainly."

Should Celtic defeat Dundee and Hearts overcome Kilmarnock in midweek, the incoming boss could lead his new club to summit of the table if they win in his opening fixture in charge.

"It's a nice one for him versus Hearts," remarked O'Neill. "A good way to start. It will be a tough match of course but good luck to him. At least he takes over a side with a bit of self-belief."

That confidence comes from O'Neill's success on the field in the last month or so, a period where he lost only once – a three-one loss at Midtjylland in the European competition.

Nevertheless, the former Irish manager and his players subsequently managed to achieve their first away win in Europe since way back in 2021 as they beat Feyenoord 3-1 recently.

Restoration of Confidence

"We were defeated by Midtjylland," O'Neill said. "That was a tough game – a few weeks before they thrashed Nottingham Forest, making it difficult. To go to Feyenoord and secure a victory on their patch was excellent. We have given the team a chance, with three games remaining to attempt qualification, but that Feyenoord game was key for belief."

What Comes Next

When asked for his reflections on his time as interim boss, O'Neill says it has led to consideration about whether he would like to carry on in management going forward.

"I honestly don't know," he admitted. "I will have a little think on everything after Wednesday evening."

"It was challenging," he added. "There was apprehension about failing – which is an ever-present big concern. I used to boast I could do the job just as poorly as many other gaffers."

"I've learned a lot. I have had some excellent coaching staff alongside me and it has served as a refresh personally in several respects, interacting with young players daily."

Consultancy Role?

Regarding if he might remain at Celtic in a consultancy role, the ex- Leicester, Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland manager says that is entirely the decision of Nancy.

"That is solely for the incoming manager to decide," O'Neill stated. "He must be given full autonomy. If he wants my opinion on matters, that is acceptable. If not, that is perfectly fine either. It's very much his team the minute he steps into the role."

Presenter Jim White concluded by asking by asking O'Neill if he would be emotional or sentimental once the final whistle sounded on Wednesday.

"Are you asking am I going to get tearful?" O'Neill responded. "Please don't be stupid."