The club appointed the 57-year-old Belgian coach, Luc Eymael, in the role on Friday, after hasty discussions in Johannesburg. This all came about mere hours after saying at a press conference that they were waiting for the South African Football Association to name their new coach.

According to the club's MD, Rali Ramabodu, this was because one of their three candidates was on the Bafana Bafana shortlist.

When asked when SAFA would be naming Shakes Mashaba's successor, Ramabodu said they were also in the dark.

"At this stage they said they have postponed their press conference until further notice," said Ramabodu. "We are still in contact with the coach and we are still talking to other coaches, however, if it takes too long, we'll be forced to make other arrangements."

Eymael has quit his job at the Limpopo PSL outfit, Polokwane City, the day before and Ramabodu denied that he is part of their plans, although they would love to welcome him to the club. "It's a privilege and compliment for us to be associated with a coach of that magnitude," the MD said about the rumours of the association. "It would be an honour for us to have somebody like that in the club, however, because he resigned yesterday (Thursday) he is not part of the shortlist of coaches."

Within hours after the press conference, Celtic broke the news of Eymael on their website, after swift negotiations with their lawyer in Johannesburg. According to the website, Eymael said he is delighted to be joining the team which has impressed him since arriving in South Africa 17 years ago. 

"I'm happy to join the team of such incredible stature with massive support. When I first arrived in the country, I somehow had a soft spot for the team, purely because of the passion and dedication displayed by the supporters and trust me, I share the same thirst to win. My philosophy is simple, to play good football with appropriate tactical discipline. I have watched the team before and have seen some exceptionally good players that just need guidance and encouragement to start winning again."

Eymael joined the team for their 2-0 over Buya Msuthu in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 at the Moruleng Stadium, but his first real challenge will be this week.

The new mentor's first task at hand will be a tough one and that will be to guide the team to a positive result against the PSL leaders, Cape Town City FC at home on Saturday evening.

The clash at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein kicks off at 18:00.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport