'Many do not know': Ex-Celtic man reveals future plans after Parkhead exit amid 'special' bond with Hoops hero
Former Celtic coach opens up on his spell at Parkhead and his Martin O’Neill inspiration.
Mark Fotheringham has paid tribute to Martin O’Neill after his successful spell in interim charge of Celtic, saying the 73-year-old has been an inspiration as he seeks a return to management.
The former Celtic midfielder re-joined the club as part of O’Neill’s backroom staff in October after a spell with Swansea City, working alongside Shaun Maloney as the club’s interim first team coach during the 73-year-old’s temporary reign in charge, before he departed following the permanent appointment of French boss Wilfried Nancy last Wednesday.
Having won seven of his eight games in charge, Fotheringham believes Celtic’s decision to thrust O’Neill back into management following the shock resignation of Brendan Rodgers proved to be an inspired decision by the club’s hierarchy.
“Our task was to leave the club in a stable position for the new manager,” said Fotheringham. “We gave everything we had. The gaffer is a wonderful man. His knowledge and work ethic at 73 are remarkable. I have spent many hours with him analysing games and listening to his stories. His knowledge of players throughout Europe is incredible.
“Even at the age of 73, he was willing to go with me to watch games live to scout the opposition – we went to St Mirren v Hibs and Motherwell v Hibs – which was a real credit to his professionalism. It highlighted his dedication and how thoroughly he would analyse and respect every opponent. He says that Shaun and I reinvigorated him, but the truth is that he has also reinvigorated us.
“I want to continue working at the highest level possible. It is difficult to know where you go after working with Felix Magath, Jurgen Klinsmann, and now Martin O’Neill. Every time I have worked with managers of this calibre, we have made an impact. I enjoy being around high-profile managers because it pushes me and my family.
Fotheringham also opened up on his friendship with Celtic captain Callum McGregor, who he played alongside at Notts County during the skipper’s spell on loan at the club as a youngster, revealing the family bond they have shared for a number of years.
“My bond with Callum is very special,” Fotheringham told Worldfootballindex. . “I admire him deeply. His family are wonderful people. Many do not know this, but his mum has been sending my three boys one hundred pounds in Christmas cards along with Celtic strips for years. They are incredibly humble and hardworking.
“Sometimes I think Callum does not fully realise how special he is. His performances have impressed the gaffer and Shaun enormously. He is a top captain. I call him the maestro. In my view, we may not see another academy player quite like him in my lifetime. The younger lads, such as Dane Murray and Colby Donovan, have also stood out.
“The Scottish boys have been excellent. Kieran Tierney is an exceptional footballer. Anthony Ralston works tremendously hard, and Luke McCowan brings incredible energy and drive to training every single day.”
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