Michael McGovern says he is relishing life at Celtic in his coaching role at Parkhead.
The former Northern Ireland international joined the Premiership champions in January, working across the first team and B team goalkeeping departments, and has quickly embraced the demands of life at the club.
“I’ve really enjoyed it,” McGovern said. “I came in in January, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. It’s great being back at the football club, and I enjoy the role.” [The Fermanagh Herald]
Having been part of Martin O’Neill’s backroom team, the 41-year-old admits the chance to work at Celtic has provided a significant step in his coaching journey. “Working with the manager was something I was really looking forward to before I came in, and it hasn’t disappointed,” he said.
“I’ve learned a lot from Martin, and all the coaching staff have been brilliant. Celtic is a massive club, and for myself as a coach, I want to be working at the highest level possible.
"Celtic are the champions again, we’re the best club in Scotland.”
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McGovern played a role behind the scenes as Celtic secured a dramatic Premiership title on the final day of the season, beating Hearts 3-1 in a winner takes all showdown. “It was a privilege personally to be involved with preparing the goalkeepers for that game,” he said.
“It’s a game people will look back on in 30 years and remember it. It was like a cup final, only it was to win the league. We weren’t top of the league for many days throughout the season, but we were when it counted.
“That’s what this football club is built on, success, winning trophies, winning leagues, and that got us through in the end.”
While the silverware marked a major milestone, McGovern insists his greatest satisfaction comes from working closely with Celtic’s goalkeepers on a daily basis. “That’s the biggest enjoyment I’ve had,” he added.
“Feeling that I’ve been helping the goalkeepers, making them better, and having an impact with them has been the biggest satisfaction.
“It’s completely different from when I was playing. Since I’ve been involved in coaching, I always want to keep learning and keep helping to make the goalkeepers better.”
