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Per the words of interim boss Martin O'Neill, the Columbus Crew head coach is slated to be in the Celtic dugout for Sunday's Premiership fixture versus Hearts.

The head coach has been involved in advanced negotiations with Parkhead side for almost a week and currently looks set to wrap up a deal.

O'Neill has served as temporary gaffer for over a month ever since the previous manager departed, achieving six victories out of seven matches, cutting into the lead at the top of the league table while also steering the club to a Premier Sports Cup place in the final.

The veteran manager, who previously managed Celtic between 2000 to 2005, had previously suggested he thought the trip to Hibernian – which ended in a 2-1 win – was likely to be his final act of his second stint at the helm.

Yet, O'Neill stated he is to manage the team for the midweek Premiership match against Dundee before Wilfried Nancy assumes control.

"He is the individual who will be coming in," O'Neill told the radio station. "I thought it was over last weekend, but there's some formalities still to be dealt with. Wednesday will assuredly be my last match."

An Unusual Period

"This has been surreal," he added. "It feels like a part in one's life that makes you wonder 'did all of that really happen?' Am I pleased that I took the role? Without a doubt."

If the Hoops beat their opponents and Hearts see off Killie on Wednesday, Nancy could lead his new club to summit of the table if they win in his opening fixture as manager.

"It's a good fixture for him against Hearts," O'Neill said. "A gentle introduction. It is going to be a tough match of course and I wish him well. At least he takes over a team with a bit of confidence."

That confidence stems from the positive run on the field over the past month or so, a period where he lost only once – a three-one defeat away to Midtjylland in the Europa League.

However, the former Republic of Ireland national team boss and his players subsequently managed to claim a first away win in Europe since way back in 2021 by defeating the Dutch club 3-1 last week.

A Confidence Boost

"We were defeated to them," O'Neill recalled. "That proved to be a hard fixture – a few weeks earlier they defeated Nottingham Forest, making it difficult. To travel to Feyenoord and win on their patch was fantastic. We have given ourselves an opportunity, with three games left to try to qualify, however, the victory in Rotterdam was key for confidence."

Future Ambitions

Upon being asked for his reflections during his time as interim boss, O'Neill stated it has led to thoughts on if he desires to carry on in management going forward.

"I genuinely don't know," he said. "I'll take a moment to reflect on everything after the match on Wednesday."

"It wasn't easy," he continued. "There was apprehension about failing – which is always a major worry. I used to boast that I was capable of doing this job just as poorly as a lot of other gaffers."

"I have learned a lot. I've got some great coaching staff alongside me and it has served as a refresh for me in many ways, dealing with young people daily."

A Potential Advisory Position?

Regarding if he might remain at Celtic as an advisor, the former Leicester City, Villa and Republic of Ireland boss stated this is completely up to Nancy.

"That is really for the incoming manager to decide," O'Neill said. "He must be allowed his own space. Should he desire my advice on matters, that is acceptable. If not, that is okay either. It becomes his squad the moment he enters the breach."

Presenter the interviewer ended the interview by asking O'Neill whether he might get emotional once the final whistle sounded on Wednesday.

"Are you asking if I will cry?" O'Neill responded. "Please don't be silly."