SportcelticHenrik Larssonowen coyle

Neil Lennon Leaves Celtic: 6 Men Who Could Replace Him

6 Men Who Could Replace Lennon At Celtic
Samuel Luckhurst
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Neil Lennon's decision to step down as Celtic manager after four years is as much of a surprise as them winning the Scottish Premiership.

In a league bereft of Rangers, Celtic were assured of three title successes under Lennon and the Ulsterman, understandably, must move on to test himself at a more competitive level.

Inexplicably installed, briefly, as the favourite to become Everton manager last summer, he will be fortunate just to obtain a Premier League managerial role. Paul Lambert, Alan Pardew and Sam Allardyce will not be sacked despite tempestuous campaigns at their clubs.

For Celtic, their large fanbase and presence in the Champions League will continue to attract managers, but who will replace Lennon? Here are five candidates...

Celtic managerial candidates
David Moyes(01 of06)
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When Moyes was mulling over a new contract at Everton last summer as he entered the final few months still undecided, Celtic emerged as the likely destination. Overlooked by Tottenham in 2012, the ship for a bigger challenge had sailed, it had seemed. Then a cruise liner steered by Sir Alex Ferguson emerged on the horizon.Moyes used to play for Celtic, has progressed experienced a Champions League quarter-final - a level always beyond the Bhoys - and is Scottish. He could rebuild his reputation at Parkhead, but will cop flak for breaking his trophy duck in a league about as inspiring as one of his team talks. (credit:Getty Images)
Henrik Larsson(02 of06)
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One of Celtic's greatest ever players, Larsson has been managing Falkenbergs in his native Sweden since December but only signed a one-year rolling contract. He might not see that out if Celtic make the call and there would be a trophy parade-like fan presence if he accepted the job. (credit:Getty Images)
Jackie McNamara(03 of06)
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Larsson's former teammate, McNamara spent 10 years at Celtic Park and guided Dundee United to a fourth-placed finish this season. Experienced in the Scottish Premiership and only 40, Celtic would be a natural progression for the former full-back. (credit:Getty Images)
Owen Coyle(04 of06)
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Available after Wigan sacked him earlier this season, Coyle is another former Premier League manager who might have to return north of the border to boost his self-esteem. (credit:Getty Images)
Malky Mackay(05 of06)
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Another Scot, Mackay might yet get a Premier League role if he is patient enough. Played sporadically for Celtic between 1993-98. (credit:Getty Images)
Steve Clarke(06 of06)
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His dubious sacking by West Brom means he is in the same boat as Mackay, insomuch as he could yet manage in the Premier League again next season. Highly regarded as an assistant, his relative inexperience as a manager could count against him. (credit:Getty Images)
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