Michael McGovern thriving in Celtic coaching role
Former Norwich City goalkeeper Michael McGovern has quickly established himself in coaching since retiring in August 2024. After a seven-year spell at Carrow Road with 42 appearances, McGovern transitioned into coaching, initially taking a goalkeeping coach role at Queens Park in the Scottish Championship.
Following a brief break after the tragic loss of his wife, Leanne, last September, McGovern returned to football in January with Celtic. The 41-year-old now assists with the Hoops B team and first-team goalkeepers, working under former Norwich player and manager Martin O’Neill.
McGovern on working with Martin O’Neill and Celtic’s title win
Michael McGovern has spoken openly about his positive experience at Celtic, praising Martin O’Neill and the coaching staff. “I’ve really enjoyed it,” McGovern told The Pink'un. “I came in in January, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. It’s great being back at the football club, and I enjoy the role.”
He described Celtic as “a massive club” and expressed his ambition to work at the highest level. McGovern played a part in preparing the goalkeepers for Celtic’s dramatic Scottish Premiership title win, which was secured with a 3-1 victory over Hearts on the final day.
Reflecting on the title-decider
“It was a privilege personally to be involved with preparing the goalkeepers for that game,” McGovern said. “It’s a game people will look back on in 30 years and remember it. It was like a cup final, only it was to win the league.”
He added that the season was tight and challenging, with Celtic not leading the league for many days but being top when it mattered most. “That’s what this football club is built on - success, winning trophies, winning leagues, and that got us through in the end.”
McGovern’s coaching satisfaction and future ambitions
While McGovern values the success Celtic has achieved, he emphasises that his greatest satisfaction comes from developing goalkeepers. “That’s the biggest enjoyment I’ve had,” he said. “Feeling that I’ve been helping the goalkeepers, making them better, and having an impact with them has been the biggest satisfaction.”
He acknowledged the difference between playing and coaching, highlighting his desire to keep learning and improving. “Since I’ve been involved in coaching, I always want to keep learning and keep helping to make the goalkeepers better.”
After a difficult personal period, McGovern admitted he was unsure if he would return to coaching but is now committed to continuing his work. “I wasn’t sure if I would go back into it, to be honest. I’ve enjoyed it, and I’m glad I’ve come back into it. I want to continue what I’m doing and help the team get more success.”