Former Celtic midfielder Mark Fotheringham has returned to Parkhead as part of Martin O’Neill’s interim backroom staff, according to SunSport.
The 42-year-old joins Shaun Maloney in assisting O’Neill during his short-term spell in charge following Brendan Rodgers’ shock departure earlier this week. Fotheringham, who began his playing career with Celtic as a teenager, now steps into the dugout to help steady the team through a turbulent period.
His addition bolsters a coaching setup that has been hastily assembled after Rodgers and long-serving assistant John Kennedy left the club on Monday night. O’Neill’s task is clear, lift the squad, restore confidence, and guide Celtic through a demanding week that includes the Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers at Hampden.
Fotheringham has built an extensive coaching résumé in recent years, with experience in England, Germany, and Scotland. He previously managed Huddersfield Town in the Championship and has worked in several assistant roles across Europe.
O’Neill is believed to have pushed for his inclusion after identifying the former midfielder’s energy and tactical knowledge as valuable assets for the short-term project.
Soccer Football – Championship – Huddersfield Town v Watford – John Smith’s Stadium, Huddersfield, Britain – December 17, 2022 Huddersfield Town manager Mark Fotheringham reacts Action Images/Ed Sykes
Fotheringham’s arrival marks another link to Celtic’s past during this unexpected period of transition. With O’Neill and Maloney already reunited, his return adds further familiarity to a setup built to bring immediate focus and drive back to the club.
Celtic are expected to confirm the full makeup of O’Neill’s interim staff in the coming days as preparations continue for a vital run of fixtures.
