Celtic confirm the exit of first team coach

Just after 9am this morning Celtic announced the departure of first team coach Harry Kewell.

The former Liverpool and Leeds winger is taking charge of Yokohama F Marinos after 18 months at Celtic, reversing the move taken by Ange Postecoglou in June 2021.

After undistinguished spells in management at Oldham and Barnet Kewell could have been lost to the game but Postecoglou wanted him involved at Celtic, becoming first team coach in the summer of 2022 in a move that saw Stephen McManus move to work with the B squad alongside Darren O’Dea.

Harry Kewell has left the Club to join Yokohama F. Marinos as Head Coach.

Thank you for your contribution to #CelticFC & best of luck, Harry!? pic.twitter.com/ugZjZ0Ceiq

— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) December 31, 2023

Brendan Rodgers has responded supportively to speculation that Kewell would be leaving Celtic, believing it is a compliment to have in-demand coaches on his staff.

Glen Driscoll returned to Celtic with Rodgers in the summer but a new vacancy allows the Irishman to bring in some fresh ideas to work mainly on the training ground.

Scott Brown would be a popular choice but less than three years after leaving Celtic the former club captain would probably be best served gaining further experience elsewhere before considering a return to the club that he inspired to a record Quadruple Treble.

UPDATE Adam Sadler arrives as first team coach

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Adam Sadler as new First Team Coach! ?

Welcome to #CelticFC, Adam ?

Read more below ?

— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) December 31, 2023