Gordon's Bombshell Caps The End To Disappointing Season

Hearts Hold The Bhoys To A Draw On Final Day

Just one day after Celtic's 0-0 draw with Hearts, which together with Rangers' final day win in Dundee left the Bhoys finishing in second-place in the Scottish Premier League, manager Gordon Strachan dropped a bombshell by announcing that he was resigning as manager.

The 52-year-old, who had served as Celtic's manager for four years had won three league titles with the club, is now said to be looking south of the border, to the Premier League for his next opportunity.

In a statement, Strachan said: "It has been an absolute honour and privilege to be the club's manager for four years..

"We have done all we can to bring success to the club and we were delighted to deliver three SPL titles, other domestic silverware, as well as making some great progress in Europe.

"It is just disappointing that we did not manage the fourth championship. However, the players can hold their heads high in terms of what they have done in recent years.

"I would like to thank the Celtic board for all the support they have given me, in particular Dermot Desmond, John Reid, Peter Lawwell and former chairman Brian Quinn - I could not have asked for any more support.

"I thank all the players I have worked with at the club and, of course, my backroom team for the backing and assistance which they have given me.

"I thank the fans too for the tremendous support which they have given both myself and the players. I wish Celtic and our supporters nothing but success for the future," he concluded.

Strachan, who managed Southampton before moving to Scotland, is rumored to be in consideration for the vacancy at Sunderland.

Rumors also abound as to who will fill his shoes at Parkhead, Motherwell's manager Mark McGhee being recommended by the departing Strachan, while bookies favor West Bromwich Albion's boss Tony Mowbray.

Chairman John Reid praised the departing manager saying that he showed "great professionalism, character and determination."

He also reassured fans that, "We will aim to appoint our new manager as soon as possible.

"Our aim is to regain the championship and restore our pre-eminent place in Scottish football."