'I’m afraid it’s not going to work' - Ex-SPFL chief dismisses Celtic financial proposal
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(Credit: Getty, Imago) Fri 17 April 2026 11:45, UK Celtic’s former non-executive director Lord Willie Haughey’s new fan trust will not work, according to Keith Wyness.The former Aberdeen chief executive, speaking to Football Insider, believes the move is only a “symbolic” gesture to the fanbase.The initiative intends to raise £2million for the club for every 10,000 season ticket holders at Celtic who join the alliance.It intends to give supporters a say on the board, and is being backed by former Celtic midfielder Paul McStay.There has been protests from Celtic supporters towards the board this season, and the fanbase has been vocal about key figures stepping down from their positions at the club. 💰 Celtic Finance Update 💰 Inside the transfer budget, player wages, new kits, stadium news, PLC accounts and boardroom developments. VISIT THE CELTIC FINANCE HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Celtic move ‘pouring oil on troubled waters’Aberdeen’s former chief Keith Wyness – who served as CEO at Pittodrie between 2000 and 2004, had lengthy spells as the chief of Everton and Aston Villa and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – believes the initiative is designed to “bring the fanbase back together.”Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast, Wyness thinks that whilst it is a “good idea,” the fans will not have any power on the Celtic board to make it worthwhile.Annual Turnover£143.6mCash At Bank£67.4mPlayer Trading Profit£31.5mMatchday Revenue£60.3mFigures based on official Celtic PLC annual and interim financial reports (2025-26)He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “I’ve known Willie for a long time.
“I’m afraid it’s not going to work. I admire the initiative; it’s a very good idea.
“Now, it will represent about just over five per cent, as I understand it, of the Celtic shareholding. They’ll have no real power at five per cent at all in terms of the board decisions, but it will be more symbolic.”Celtic to pursue new number one goalkeeper Celtic fans will be urging the board to invest in the squad in the summer transfer window, as the Hoops look set to lose their Scottish Premiership title.With Kasper Schmeichel’s contract expiring in the summer, Celtic are looking to sign Levante goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, sources have told Football Insider.Whilst Viljami Sinisalo has impressed in-between the sticks in the second half of the season, Celtic want to bring in an experienced shot stopper as their new number one.Ryan has previous experience in the Premier League with both Arsenal and Brighton, whilst the 34-year-old has earned over 100 caps for Australia.