Ange made his Mark on Celts years before deal
NEW Celtic recruitment chief Mark Lawwell played a key role in the hiring of Ange Postecoglou years before his appointment at Parkhead.
He was on former chief executive Peter Lawwell’s six-man managerial shortlist for three years before they finally made their move, it has been revealed.
Lawwell senior was credited with hiring the Aussie by majority shareholder Dermot Desmond.
But he has revealed how son Mark’s rave review in 2019 convinced him Postecoglou had the stature to be a success in the Parkhead dugout.
Lawwell junior was this month appointed as the Hoops’ head of scouting and recruitment. But his dad confirmed he played a key role in the hiring of double-winning boss Postecoglou years earlier.
Speaking to Aussie outlet Keep Up, Lawwell said: “He first came to my attention via my son Mark who said a guy called Ange Postecoglou is manager of Yokohama, this guy’s the real deal. That got my interest.
“I watched him carefully over that period. As CEO, I’ve always got a list of six names in the top drawer – you never know what can happen with the manager.
“Ange was on the list for three years – just before he won the league (with Marinos in 2019). I watched him, liked him. He won the league and had great success.”
Celtic moved swiftly for Postecoglou last summer after the protracted pursuit of Eddie Howe broke down.
Lawwell said: “In my initial chats with Ange I got a really great impression.
“He was experienced, mature, had courage in his convictions. And having watched him over the years, he played football the right way.”