By Happypal 
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton has voiced his strong support for Ange Postecoglou to make a sensational return to Celtic Park, calling the Australian “the obvious and smart choice” to replace Brendan Rodgers as manager. Sutton, now a respected football pundit, believes that Postecoglou’s deep understanding of the club’s culture, philosophy, and winning mentality makes him the standout candidate to lead the team forward.
Background: A Managerial Vacancy at Parkhead
Celtic’s managerial seat has become the most talked-about position in Scottish football following Brendan Rodgers’ recent departure. After a spell marked by domestic dominance but uneven European results, Rodgers’ exit has sparked widespread speculation about who should take charge next.
Names like Enzo Maresca, David Moyes, and even Kjetil Knutsen have surfaced in discussions, but Chris Sutton insists that Ange Postecoglou represents both the safest and most ambitious option.
Postecoglou, who managed Celtic between 2021 and 2023, left an indelible mark on the club, guiding them to multiple trophies and restoring the attacking flair that fans craved. His philosophy of high-intensity football, technical precision, and player development turned Celtic into a dominant force once again in Scottish football.
Sutton’s Verdict: “Postecoglou Is the Obvious Choice”
In his latest comments, Sutton praised Postecoglou’s impact and understanding of the Celtic ethos. “If you’re looking for someone who knows this club, knows how to win, and knows how to handle pressure, Ange is your man,” he said.
The former striker, who played under Martin O’Neill during Celtic’s golden era, added that Postecoglou’s track record speaks for itself. “He built a team that not only won but entertained. That’s something Celtic fans demand. The identity, the tempo, the pride — he brought it all back.”
Sutton’s endorsement has resonated strongly among fans, many of whom have expressed a desire to see Postecoglou return. The prospect of reuniting with key players he once managed adds another layer of excitement to the speculation.
A Look Back: Postecoglou’s Time at Celtic
When Postecoglou first arrived in Glasgow in 2021, he faced skepticism. Few outside Australia and Japan knew much about him, and the club was in a transitional phase after a disappointing 2020–21 season.
But within months, the tone changed. Postecoglou’s Celtic played exhilarating football — pressing aggressively, passing fluidly, and attacking with relentless purpose. Under his leadership, Celtic won back-to-back Scottish Premiership titles, the League Cup, and the Scottish Cup, securing a domestic treble before his departure for Tottenham Hotspur.
His recruitment strategy also earned plaudits. Postecoglou identified hidden gems from Japan’s J-League — such as Kyogo Furuhashi, Reo Hatate, and Daizen Maeda — who became instant fan favourites. His ability to scout, adapt, and integrate international talent into Scottish football was one of his managerial hallmarks.
The Dermot Desmond Factor
Celtic’s principal shareholder, Dermot Desmond, has often had a decisive voice in managerial appointments. While his statement on the matter has been diplomatic, insiders suggest he remains an admirer of Postecoglou’s methods.
Desmond reportedly respected Postecoglou’s professionalism, attention to detail, and capacity to elevate both players and staff. That mutual respect could play a vital role if the club decides to reach out again.
Sutton acknowledged this dynamic, saying, “Desmond knows Ange delivered success on and off the pitch. He understands how to build a structure that lasts. If you want stability and vision, there’s no better candidate.”
Rodgers’ Departure and Its Ripple Effect
Brendan Rodgers’ second stint at Celtic was a mixed success. While he added silverware to the club’s trophy cabinet, his tactical style often faced scrutiny, especially during European competitions.
His exit — reportedly motivated by differences in club strategy — has opened the door for speculation. Fans have been quick to draw comparisons between Rodgers’ pragmatic style and Postecoglou’s more expansive approach.
Sutton made the distinction clear: “Rodgers is a top manager, but Ange gave Celtic a different energy. He reconnected the supporters with the team. That’s not something you can replicate easily.”
Postecoglou’s Current Situation
At the time of Sutton’s comments, Ange Postecoglou remains in charge of Tottenham Hotspur, where he has impressed during his tenure in the Premier League. His attacking approach and man-management style have earned plaudits from players and pundits alike.
However, the possibility of a Celtic return — even hypothetical — captures fans’ imagination. For many, Postecoglou represents unfinished business in Scotland.
While he has repeatedly expressed gratitude to Celtic for launching his European career, he’s also indicated he’s fully focused on his current role. “Celtic will always be a part of me,” he said previously, “but right now, I’m committed to building something at Tottenham.”
That statement hasn’t stopped the rumour mill, with fans debating whether an emotional homecoming could ever materialize.
Why Sutton Believes Postecoglou Fits the Job
Sutton’s argument goes beyond nostalgia. His reasoning hinges on Postecoglou’s systematic success — a model based on principles rather than personnel.
“He doesn’t just build a team,” Sutton explained. “He builds a culture. From the youth setup to the senior squad, everyone knows the standards. That’s what Celtic need right now.”
Sutton also noted that continuity in philosophy is vital. “Changing styles too often sets teams back. Ange already laid the foundation. Why not bring back the architect?”
His endorsement aligns with many Celtic legends who have praised Postecoglou’s professionalism, communication, and vision.
The Fan Perspective
Among Celtic supporters, social media discussions have exploded since Sutton’s remarks. A significant portion of the fanbase echoes his sentiment — that Postecoglou’s era brought not only silverware but also a sense of pride and connection.
Many argue that even if a return seems unlikely given his current Premier League role, the idea underscores the type of manager Celtic should seek: ambitious, attacking-minded, and emotionally invested in the club’s values.
For fans, the dream scenario is clear — a reunion that reignites the energy of 2022’s title-winning side.
Tactical Impact: What a Postecoglou Return Could Mean
Should Postecoglou return, it would likely herald a return to fast-paced, possession-based football. His hallmark system emphasizes:
- High pressing and quick transitions
- Dynamic full-backs creating width
- Creative midfielders controlling tempo
- Fluid attacking rotations
Such a setup not only excites supporters but also develops players technically and mentally. The return of that structure could re-establish Celtic as a formidable force in Europe.
Moreover, his proven success in integrating youth and unheralded talent aligns with Celtic’s financial model — buying smart, developing internally, and selling profitably when necessary.
Celtic’s Shortlist: The Competition
Despite Sutton’s endorsement, Celtic are believed to be exploring several managerial candidates. Each brings a different profile:
- David Moyes – Experienced, Scottish, defensively disciplined.
- Kjetil Knutsen – Modern tactician from Bodø/Glimt, known for attacking football.
- Enzo Maresca – Stylish and tactically flexible, but unproven in Scotland.
However, none possess the same emotional connection or proven track record at Parkhead as Postecoglou.
Sutton highlighted that distinction, remarking, “You can bring in new faces, but few understand the magnitude of this job. Ange already conquered it once.”
The Legacy Factor
Ange Postecoglou’s Celtic legacy continues to influence the club’s identity. His emphasis on unity, humility, and relentless standards remains embedded in players who worked under him.
As one of his former players once said, “He didn’t just teach us football. He taught us accountability.”
That legacy, combined with his connection to the supporters, ensures his name will always surface whenever Celtic face a managerial change.
Sutton’s Closing Thoughts
Chris Sutton’s message was clear and concise: “If Celtic want to move forward, they should look back at what worked. Postecoglou brought belief, drive, and results. That’s what this club thrives on.”
He also reminded fans that football is cyclical. “Sometimes, the right person comes along twice. And if there’s ever a time Celtic need direction, it’s now.”
Conclusion
The conversation around Ange Postecoglou’s potential Celtic return encapsulates everything that makes football compelling — history, emotion, strategy, and ambition.
While a reunion may not be imminent, Chris Sutton’s comments have reignited debate among fans, pundits, and insiders alike. Whether or not the Australian coach finds his way back to Glasgow, his legacy at Parkhead remains untouchable.
For now, the Celtic faithful watch and wait — hopeful that whoever steps into the dugout next can capture even a fraction of the magic Postecoglou once brought to the green and white.
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