Celtic have moved another step closer to appointing Ange Postecoglou as their new manager.
The Scottish Premiership club have applied for an exemption that would allow the Greek-Australian to take charge at Parkhead - without holding a UEFA Pro licence.
It’s understood that Celtic are confident Postecoglou’s 25 years in management will see him granted "recognition of competence" by European football's governing body though it could take several weeks to be approved.
The Hoops have also cited his international football experience as a former manager of the Australian national team.
"Mr Postecoglou does not currently hold the UEFA Pro Licence," UEFA has confirmed.
"A recognition of competence procedure has been initiated. The process could take several weeks. We don't have any further information to provide at this stage."
Former Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew feels any significant delay would be damaging to the preparations for next season.
"They need to get it done as soon as possible," the Scotland defender told Sky Sports. "The fans want to know and as a club they need to know.
"Players need to know who is going to be their charge, their pre-season schedule needs to be sorted. They need to get out on the training ground with the new manager and find out exactly how he works."
