IS WILFRIED A NANCY BHOY?

WILFRIED NANCY appears to have taken a step closer to being announced as Celtic’s permanent successor to Brendan Rodgers after bookies last night suspended betting on the Frenchman.

And the Columbus Crew head coach also earned a ringing endorsement from former USA international chief Bruce Arena as the guessing game continues.

Martin O’Neill, of course, answered the call to take over only hours after Rodgers’ dramatic resignation just over two weeks ago.

The 73-year-old former Hoops boss has been in charge for four games since his remarkable recall – winning two league outings, gaining a place in the Premier Sports League Cup Final next month and losing a Europa League match in Denmark.

IN WITH A SHOUT…Wilfried Nancy is favourite for Celtic job.

However, O’Neill admits he doesn’t know how long he will be occupying the Celtic dug-out as the Parkhead powerbrokers step up the search for a long-term replacement.

Clearly, Nancy, 48, is the odds-on favourite and the timing is perfect for the champions to make their move with the MLS season coming to a halt last weekend and not scheduled to restart until February.

Arena, who had two spells as his country’s supremo and is currently manager and sporting director at San Jose Earthquakes, said: “Wilfried’s a very organised and disciplined coach.

“His team is very possession oriented and attacks with numbers. I think he’d be a very good fit for Celtic in the Scottish league.

“He’s regarded as a top-tier coach here. He’s done a very good job for Columbus and is well respected.

“I reckon he can make the adjustment.”

Arena, speaking to the Scottish Sun, added: “I believe it would be fantastic for the reputation of MLS coaches.

“Many years ago, coaches in MLS were not respected, especially American and Canadian coaches. Now they get interest from clubs all around the world.

“Wilfried Nancy being appointed by Celtic would be great.”