Former England midfielder Gareth Barry believes his ex-manager Roberto Martinez is a strong contender to take charge at Celtic and make a significant impact…
The two previously worked together at Everton – where Barry was impressed by Martinez’s total commitment to the game – describing him as someone who “lived and breathed football.”
After spells managing Belgium and now Portugal – who he is set to lead into this summer’s World Cup – Barry suggested Martinez may be keen to return to the daily demands of club management.
He added that appointing the Spaniard would represent a major move for Celtic, with Martinez likely driven to rebuild Celtic if given the opportunity.
Speaking via Glasgow Times, Barry said: “Getting Roberto Martinez would be a big statement for Celtic. The way Roberto Martinez’s managerial career has gone, I can see that happening. He’s had a couple of years out of the day-to-day stuff with the international jobs.”
“Having worked at Everton, he absolutely lives and breathes football, knows every player, knows every tactical move.”
“I think he’ll be a success there. He’ll improve players that come into the club. It will suit their style of wanting to improve young players, moving them on sometimes. I can actually see that happening and see why he’s among the favourites for the job.”
Meanwhile, Barry insists he wouldn’t be surprised if Celtic somehow still go on and win the title ahead of Sunday’s trip to Dens Park.
He said: “I’m not surprised by the bounce they had with Martin because I know the way he manages. He’ll come in and bring the confidence back to everyone and get a team that’s settled rather than make loads of changes, get everyone in their right positions, and just simplify things.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if they finish strongly and nick it from the other two. The experience he’s got there, been there and done it, will give him a little edge over the other two managers.”
Conor Spence
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As a club, are we really in a position to potentially wait upon a manager, who is going to be involved within the world cup?
Even after there involvement, they will potentially be looking at a few weeks break also?
So with reduced time on offer, with the amount of work required over the summer period, within our club.
Are we in a position to play such a waiting game?
Personally don’t think so, and doubtful Martinez has to look at Scottish football to ignite his own club management career also?
So therefore, would class any potential links for Martinez as nonsense at this stage imo?