ROY KEANE could bring in Nicky Butt as his No 2 if he gets the Celtic job.
The former Manchester United captain, 49, is on the short-list to replace Neil Lennon and has already held talks with the Parkhead hierarchy.
Scotland manager Steve Clarke, Red Bull Salzburg chief Jesse Marsch and Chris Wilder, recently axed by Sheffield United, are also in the running.
But the possibility of adding hugely experienced Butt might be able to swing it for Keane.
Butt, 46, made a shock exit from United last week after nine years as coach and then head of first-team development.
It is understood Butt did not see eye to eye with new director of football John Murtough.
He helped bring current first-teamers like Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, Axel Tuanzebe, Dean Henderson and Mason Greenwood through the youth ranks into the senior side.
And Butt told the club’s official website: “Having come through the Academy myself to play almost 400 games for Manchester United, it has been an absolute privilege to come back and work with a new generation of talent making that same journey.
“I already know from my playing days how difficult it is to leave Manchester United.
“But it feels like the right moment for a new professional challenge.
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“I look forward to exploring opportunities that build on the great experiences I’ve had here over the past nine years.”
It is believed Butt fancies joining Keane at the Bhoys as the fiery Irishman prepares to return to management more than ten years after leaving Ipswich.
A move to link up with Wayne Rooney could also be on the cards.
Derby’s Under-23s boss Gary Bowyer left to take over as Salford City manager this week — the team Butt co-owns with pals David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Gary and Phil Neville, Paul Scholes and businessman Peter Lim.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
