Keane still in Strachan’s plans

CELTIC manager Gordon Strachan is still planning for next season with Roy Keane in his thoughts.

Speculation refuses to go away following Keane’s bombshell that injury could force him to hang up his boots in the summer.

But the 34-year-old, who celebrates a testimonial against Manchester United at Old Trafford next Tuesday, has finished the season strongly and his manager is confident he will see out his contract.

“Nobody wants to go, apart from Stilian Petrov,” said Strachan. “I cannot tell you any different because Roy hasn’t mentioned anything to me.”

The former Republic of Ireland international inspired his team-mates to a comfortable 2-0 victory over Kilmarnock on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Mark Wilson believes Celtic’s old guard will prove to be invaluable in the Champions League next season.

The futures of Keane, Varga, Alan Thompson and Dion Dublin are still unsure but Wilson, 21, hopes the quartet are alongside him when they return to training in preparation for next season.

The defender said: “When you have been at a club the size of Celtic it is hard to leave. We don’t know if these guys are going to leave and who is going to come in but the performances of these players have been great.

“Having the older players around can also help the younger lads as being among them this season has helped me. It is also great having a player with the stature of Roy Keane around. It is fantastic to have alongside you.”