Celtic appoint Wilfried Nancy as their new manager on a two-and-a-half-year contract

Celtic have appointed Wilfried Nancy as their new permanent manager, replacing interim boss Martin O’Neill.

Nancy has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract at the Scottish giants after his protracted move from Major League Soccer outfit Columbus Crew was finally confirmed.

His first game in charge will be a top-of-the-table Scottish Premiership clash Hearts at Celtic Park on Sunday.

Wilfried Nancy: Celtic is one of the world’s proper clubs

‘I can’t wait to get going and become part of such a brilliant institution,’ the 48-year-old said.

‘Celtic is one of the world’s proper football clubs, real atmosphere and heart and soul, real high standards and real demands, which I am ready for. I know the history, I know the values of Celtic and I know what is expected of me on this journey.

‘I know what Celtic means to so many people and my No. 1 aim will be simple – to give our fans a strong, exciting, attacking, winning football team they can be so proud of.’

Wilfried Nancy hails Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney

The Frenchman replaces O’Neill who took temporary charge of Celtic at the end of October after Brendan Rodgers’ shock resignation.

Celtic won every domestic match during his spell and closed the gap to league leaders Hearts to just two points as well as reach the League Cup final.

And speaking about O’Neill’s impact, Nancy had nothing but positive words for the 73-year-old and interim assistant Shaun Maloney.

‘I want to thank the great Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney for all they have done in recent weeks with the team,’ he added.

‘These guys have given so much to the club across so many years and I know our fans, like me, all recognise the brilliant job they have done.

‘They have my total respect and my total gratitude. I hope to meet them both very soon and thank them personally.’