Some Celtic fans are delighted that the club’s assistant coach John Kennedy is staying at the club, despite interest from fellow Premiership side Hibernian in recent days.
The Scottish Sun had reported on Tuesday that Hibs were looking at Kennedy to make him their new manager and he was the favourite to take over the job. But they have since reported that the 36-year-old has now ended talks of a move to Easter Road club.
They state that Hibs owner Ron Gordon was about to make an offer, but there is no chance that Kennedy leaves the Hoops anytime soon.
Some Celtic fans are delighted at the news and are hailing Kennedy for the decision.
The big guy remained loyal as all others deserted to Leicester. Hope he does stay
— John Hood (@bhoyhood67) November 12, 2019
One thing is true regardless of what people think of JK as a coach, and whether he should stay or not. He is a Celtic man – 100%!! This is not debatable.
If he leaves for a bigger opportunity, he should go with nothing less than our blessing.
— Russ McGill (@MnBhoy) November 12, 2019
John Kennedy been linked with hibs job over the past few days, would be good for his career but Celtic through and through so don’t see him leaving
— scottish football talk (@scofootytalk) November 13, 2019
As a player, Kennedy was a product of the Celtic youth academy. He came through the system, making his debut in the year 1999 and he stayed at Celtic Park for around 10 years.
His time at the club included a temporary loan spell at Norwich City during the Canaries’ time in the Championship. He played 16 times in the league for the club and even scored twice during this time.
In 2009 though, Kennedy’s career was cut-short in premature fashion due to injury. He retired from playing in November that year but soon became a scout for the club in 2010. Under Rony Diela in 2014 though, Kennedy became a first-team coach at the club and did the same under Brendan Rodgers.
During Neil Lennon’s second tenure at the club, Kennedy was appointed as the club’s assistant manager.
Some Celtic fans also feel that Kennedy could well be their club’s first-team manager one day.
John Kennedy will be Celtic manager one day.
— Jerry Frimpongs Fenian Army (@Emmet_1888) November 13, 2019
Kennedy wouldn’t take a step down. He’s worked hard to get to where he is today. Celtic manager one day. Jimmy Delaneys grandson. It’s fate!
— Fergus (@FergusLovesYou) November 13, 2019
Hibernian sacked Paul Heckingbottom last week and are still looking for a new manager for the vacant post.
What do we think?
While it is tough to say whether Kennedy would have been too big for the Hibs job, it is easy to say that he is Celtic through and through. He has been associated with the club over the last 20 years and staying there is still the best option for him.
If the club ever hunts for a manager, he might just make a jump into that role.