HANDS OFF KIERAN

Scots striker Hirst is a massive fan of the Ipswich manager and urges Celtic to look elsewhere in their pursuit of new gaffer

- BY SCOTT McDERMOTT

GEORGE HIRST has revealed his delight that Celtic target Kieran McKenna stayed at Ipswich to lead their Premier League promotion charge.

And the Scotland striker hopes the Northern Irishman fends off any interest from Parkhead to stay at Portman Road for the long term.

McKenna was one of the favourites for the Hoops manager's job when French flop Wilfried Nancy got the gig last year. And even now the 40-year-old is still a 16/1 shot to be in charge at Celtic Park for the first game of next season.

The Scottish champions are weighing up their options after veteran gaffer Martin O'Neill led them to the Double.

Celtic's hierarchy has already begun its search for a new boss, with O'Neill and Robbie Keane two of the leading candidates.