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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Celtic 'to appoint new coach next month' as Kewell nears Yokohama F Marinos move

Celtic will reportedly appoint a new first-team coach in January with Harry Kewell nearing a Parkhead exit.

It's claimed Brendan Rodgers will likely add to his backroom team next month - during the winter break - as Kewell prepares to become Yokohama F Marinos boss.

The Scottish Sun reports Celtic are expected to add to the coaching staff to fill the gap left by the departing Kewell.

However, it's claimed there is no sign over who could come into Celtic with an internal promotion a possibility.

Should Kewell's move to Yokohama be confirmed, Celtic will operate with a backroom team of John Kennedy, Gavin Strachan and Stevie Woods.

It's further claimed that Kewell - who missed the win over Dundee amid exit talks - will not feature in the dugout for the match against Rangers tomorrow.

Kewell, 45, had joined Celtic as a coach under Ange Postecoglou and remained in his role after Rodgers' return as manager.

However, he is now expected to head for Japan with Yokohama keen on acquiring his services after Kevin Muscat left the club.

Rodgers previously confirmed interest from Japan in Kewell and revealed he is "very encouraging" of staff wishing to "broaden their horizons".

He said: "I spoke to Harry about it after the game the other night and I am not sure how far down the road it is.

"He is still very much working here but there is a level of interest in him which does not surprise me because he is a talented guy.

"We will see what evolves from that over the next few days. He has already managed before, so it is not new to him.

"He has had a taste of it and I am always one that if staff members want to broaden their horizons then I am very encouraging of that.

"It is also a sign that you have talented people if other clubs want them."

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