Ex-Rangers and Scotland manager Alex McLeish says he has been hearing rumours that former Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has been seen speaking to Celtic board members in recent weeks.

The 42-year-old is currently seventh favourite for the Hoops job, having seen his odds slip in recent days, but McLeish claims the Englishman could well be under consideration to become the Scottish club’s next head coach:

“I’m hearing whispers that Frank Lampard was seen with the Celtic directors. No matter what, the rumour mill will continue to thrive until an appointment is finally made. I think the fans would love a big name. There’s no doubt about it, they’ll be looking for that kind of personality.”

McLeish isn’t the sort of person to be spreading baseless rumours so he’s obviously heard something from someone he thinks is reliable. However, at the same time, there has been no indication that Celtic have even started the recruitment process.

Dominic McKay hasn’t yet taken up his post as chief executive and caretaker manager John Kennedy will be given until the summer so there is a fair amount of time to make a decision.

Fans are, though, clamouring for more information about Neil Lennon’s successor and McLeish’s claim will only add to the speculation.