DAMIEN DUFF has left Celtic to pursue his new role with the ROI FA. The former Fulham midfielder has been a member of Neil Lennon’s first team staff since Rodgers departure back in February 2019.
The Premier League winner with Chelsea joined Celtic from Shamrock Rovers in January 2019 as he transitioned into coaching. Rodgers’ abrupt departure allowed Duff to be promoted to the first team coach position under Lennon.
Duff was due to combine his duties with Celtic and Ireland following Stephen Kenny’s appointment to become the Irish manager. However, with his contract expiring next month, Neil Lennon has confirmed that he will be leaving the club.
“I spoke to Damien on Monday and he was in good spirits but he’ll join the FAI.
“It’s a blow because he contributed immensely and personally I got on great with him.
“He’s in his formative years as a coach but he made a huge contribution and there was a good chemistry there. So he’ll be difficult to replace, that’s for sure.
“We were waiting on everything getting called first then we’ll look to replace him but it’s not at the forefront of our minds.
“Damien’s at home in Ireland but his contract doesn’t run out until the end of next month.
“If we come back on June 10 we might have him until the end of the month and that might buy us some time to look to bring someone in or promote from within.”
Lennon could look to Stephen McManus or Darren O’Dea from within as Celtic look to keep the momentum going into next season as the club chase an incredible 10IAR.
This could be a blow for the club with another highly rated coach leaving the club, following Shaun Maloney’s departure as well. Neil Lennon could look to Johan Mjallby or Garry Parker as he looks for a replacement.
