Celtic too big to play waiting game for Eddie Howe, says Frank McAvennie
The former Celtic striker says they should end their interest in Eddie Howe if he doesn't view them as his priority
Last updated 12th Apr 2021
Former Celtic striker Frank McAvennie says the club should move on from their interest in Eddie Howe if he doesn't view them as his top option.
The Parkhead side have held talks with the ex-Bournemouth boss - with his representatives saying last week there had been 'significant interest' in his services.
Howe has been linked with Premier League jobs as he views a return to management in the summer.
McAvennie thinks Celtic should be the clear option for Eddie Howe and insists the club should drop their interest in him if he doesn't realise that.
He said: "If it's true that he's going to go and speak to Crystal Palace and Newcastle, then I would say no.
"I don't know if I would want him because it means his heart isn't in it.
"Down south people don't realise how big Celtic and Rangers are. They are huge clubs.
"I lived in England a long time and they don't realise it until they come up and step through the door".
"He is a good manager and of course people will be interested in him.
"But I just hope Celtic have not put all their eggs in one basket and relied on Eddie Howe because there are a lot of good managers out there.
"You can't wait until June for Eddie Howe to say no. Celtic is too big a club for that, they shouldn't wait for anyone in that respect.
"I am sure Dermot (Desmond, principal shareholder) and Peter (Lawwell, outgoing chief executive) and the new chief executive coming in (Dominic McKay) will be talking to different people, I am sure of it.
"Celtic is a massive club so they won't be just talking to one guy, surely not?''
McAvennie believes Scottish Cup holders Celtic are in fine fettle for the trip to Ibrox following their convincing 6-0 Premiership win over Livingston at Parkhead on Saturday, their biggest league victory of the season.
He said: "That was a strong result for Celtic at the weekend. Livi are not an easy team to beat.
"The players are all playing for each other now, you seen that at the weekend.
"Maybe they are playing for a move or to stay for next season, who knows and who cares, as long as they turn it on when it matters against Rangers.''
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Frank McAvennie was speaking to promote coverage of Rangers v Celtic exclusively live on Premier Sports. Premier Sports is available on Sky, Virgin TV and the Premier Player. Prices start from £10.99 per month.