FORMER Celtic keeper David Marshall has admitted he would love to return to Parkhead.
The Scotland international No 1 is heading for the Wigan exit after the financially-stricken club’s relegation to the third tier in England.
Neil Lennon spent £4/5million in bringing in Greek ace Vasilis Barkas, 26, from AEK Athens last week to join Scott Bain as competition for the gloves.
However, he is still searching for a third shotstopper after missing out on Fraser Forster in the summer and Craig Gordon’s departure to rejoin Hearts on a two-year deal.
Marshall, who quit the Hoops for Norwich City in 2007 after losing his first-team place to Artur Boruc, and ex-England netminder Joe Hart, a free agent after leaving Burnley, have been linked with the post at the nine-in-a-row champions.
Asked if a return to Parkhead appeals to him, 35-year-old Marshall, speaking to the Scottish Sun, replied: “Of course it would. I think it would interest any player.
“But to a Celtic fan growing up, and someone who played there as a youngster coming through, it would be a massive thing for me.
“I’ll just need to see how it all pans out.
“I haven’t heard anything from Celtic, but I’ll always have that affinity with them and it would be great if it happens.”
Marshall will quit the Latics, who he joined from Hull City last year, following their 12-point penalty for going into administration which them lose their Championship status.
He added: “With Craig and Big Fraser leaving Celtic, there was talk of me going there.
“The administration at Wigan happened and people were putting two and two together.
“Celtic have obviously now signed the boy Barkas from Greece, losing two keepers and bringing one in. I don’t know if they’re looking for another one.
“I saw Scott Bain played on Sunday against Hamilton and he’s had another year’s experience of playing at Celtic.
“I’m pretty sure they would be happy to go with the two goalies they have at the club now.
“I don’t know too much about Barkas. I know he played against Celtic for AEK in Europe.
“But I’d be lying if I said I had seen him play, so it will be interesting to see how he gets on. Bainy played against Hamilton and I think the Greek league has been shut down for a while.
“Barkas has got a lot of experience and as an international player it’s a good signing.
“He’s a good age, too. He’s got his best years ahead of him, so I’m sure it will turn out to be good business by Celtic.”
