Mowbray: Celtic finally make their move

Last updated : 08 June 2009 By Mikbhoy

Tony Mowbray's name has been firmly in the frame for the Celtic manager's job since Gordon Strachan resigned two weeks ago. The rumour and conjecture has gone into overdrive over the past few days so it was no great shock when the West Brom chairman announced today that Celtic had finally made official contact with his club.

"After two weeks of speculation, I have finally received a call from the Celtic chief executive, Peter Lawwell, requesting permission to speak to Tony." said Jeremy Peace. "I made it absolutely clear that Celtic's approach was not welcome because we have an ongoing project at Albion in which Tony is an integral part."

"Tony's style of play is a key factor in that project." he said. "And the supporters have very much bought into it, as everyone saw by the terrific reception the fans gave Tony and the players after our final home game against Liverpool. It is also reflected by the fact we have already sold more than 16,000 season tickets for 2009/10.

Ex-Hibs boss Mowbray's contract with the Baggies is believed to contain a compensation clause worth approximately £2million and chairman Peace, without confirming that figure, did agree that the clause existed. "We inserted a compensation figure when Tony signed a new contract 16 months ago to ensure that the club would be suitably recompensed in the event of any other club seeking his services." he said. "Most people would regard it as a fair figure. It was inserted in the contract in good faith and is non-negotiable because we don't want to lose our manager."

"Celtic have been made aware of the compensation figure and, if they agree to pay this, only then will I speak to Tony to get his thoughts on the situation." continued Peace. "Until and unless that happens, as far as we are concerned, it is business as usual as we plan for a very important season ahead of us. We hope this is the end of the matter as we do not need any further, unwelcome distractions for the job in hand."

Celtic would make no comment on Mowbray today other than to release a statement saying "The process of appointing our new manager is ongoing. The club will continue to work to ensure that it gets the right man for the job."