Stacy Boit,

Martin O’Neill is set to continue as Celtic manager after two interim spells last season culminated in a Premiership and Scottish Cup double.

The 74-year-old has now agreed to stay at Parkhead on a one-year contract – with the option for a further year – after holding talks with the club’s major shareholder, Dermot Desmond, earlier this week.

Celtic have yet to officially confirm the appointment.

Twenty years on from ending a five-year stint as Celtic manager, O’Neill returned in late October on a temporary basis after Brendan Rodgers’ departure, overseeing eight games.

He made way for Wilfried Nancy, but the Frenchman left after six defeats and two wins from eight matches – leading to O’Neill returning in early January until the end of the season.

The league title race went to the final day of the campaign, with Celtic beating long-time leaders Hearts 3-1 to retain the crown.

Then, at Hampden two weeks ago, O’Neill won his ninth trophy as Celtic manager with a 3-1 win over Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish Cup final.

Across his two spells last term, O’Neill oversaw 35 games in all competitions, winning 27 and drawing four.

His average of 2.56 points per game in the league matched his corresponding figure from 2000-05.

Robbie Keane, a one-time Celtic player, had been linked with the Celtic manager’s job before and after his recent exit from Ferencvaros.

However, several Celtic supporters clubs put their name to a statement earlier this week opposing his potential appointment because of the Irishman’s previous role as Maccabi Tel Aviv head coach.

Danish coach Jens Berthel Askou was also mentioned in connection with the position before leaving Motherwell for Toulouse.