Boss Roy Keane continues to be linked with the vacant manager's job at his former club Celtic. Various former Bhoys players have been quoted over the last few days stating that Keane is the man to take over from Gordon Strachan, who resigned at the weekend.

Bertie Auld, a member of the 1967 European Cup-winning team, says Keane should be his former club's number one choice: "I know Roy agreed to take over as Ipswich boss only a few weeks ago, but that shouldn't bother Celtic. They should target him immediately.

"Ask any fan and he'll tell you the same. Roy Keane is what Celtic should be all about.

"He has passion, determination, enthusiasm and drive. He's done it all as a player with Manchester United but he still has ambition to succeed as a manager.

"There is no doubt in my mind Keane would win over the players and take control of the dressing room. That, of course, is of paramount importance.

"This is a guy who wants to be a winner. Second best is unacceptable. He doesn't take any nonsense from anyone and that's what Celtic need just now.

"No disrespect to the other names in the frame, but they would only be second best if Celtic do not get Keane.”

Ex-Celtic boss Davie Hay agrees: "I don't think there is any doubt Roy Keane would do a marvellous job for the club.

"He has leadership qualities and he so capably demonstrated them as a player for Manchester United and his country.”

One unconfirmed report this morning says that the Celtic board considered Keane as a potential candidate but the suggestion was rejected after the Blues boss, appointed just over a month ago, was tentatively approached last week.

Former Town skipper and coach Tony Mowbray, currently with West Brom, and Burnley manager Owen Coyle are believed to be the leading contenders, although both have ruled out a move to Parkhead according to reports this morning.

Meanwhile, Swansea boss Roberto Martinez has pulled out of the race to sign Hamilton midfielder James McCarthy: "Right now, James McCarthy would be an impossible task for us financially."

Roy Keane recently watched the 18-year-old in action and Town are amongst a host of clubs believed to be chasing the Republic of Ireland U21 international's signature.

Ex-Blue Sam Parkin has been released by Luton Town. The striker recently made it clear that he would be looking to move on to a club in the Football League at the end of his contract. Parkin spent time on loan at League One Leyton Orient last season.

Elsewhere, Renato Civelli, brother of Town midfielder Luciano, has been linked with a move from Marseille to Blackburn. The defender has also been targeted by Belgian side Anderlecht.

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