Celtic booked their place in the Premier Sports Cup final over the weekend against Rangers and did so in style, and the club have now made their intentions known regarding the future of interim boss Martin O'Neill, who has already said "yes" to the permanent job.

One week is a long time in football, and many Hoops supporters could be forgiven for believing that they are caught up in some form of fever dream amid surprising recent events.

Brendan Rodgers' departure from Celtic in the lead-up to a pivotal double-header against Falkirk and their city rivals was enough to send people into a frenzy, never mind when former boss O'Neill was drafted on a temporary basis alongside Shaun Maloney.

However, the former Republic of Ireland boss has completely changed the outlook of his side, who stuck four past the Bairns in his opening Scottish Premiership match in charge.

Nevertheless, the Glasgow Derby was always going to be the main test of his managerial capabilities, and one that the 73-year-old passed with flying colours after Celtic defeated Rangers in strong fashion to progress to the Premier Sports Cup final.

While Kieran McKenna, Craig Bellamy and Nicky Hayen all remain in contention, Kilrea native O'Neill made it clear that he would be open to an extended period in charge of the Bhoys if the opportunity was available.

He said when pressed on the subject while live on Premier Sports: "The very obvious answer would be: yes (open to extended stay).

"I would do. But I genuinely don't know what to expect.

"When I saw the games they had and then the international break, I thought they'll have a couple of weeks to think about it. I haven't even spoken to him since that. In a perverse sort of way I've enjoyed the two games - but not a lot."

With O'Neill's feelings now clear, Celtic's stance on his future has come to light in the hours after their much-needed victory over Rangers at Hampden.

Celtic edging closer to appointing Martin O'Neill

According to Football Insider, O'Neill is edging closer to becoming the permanent Celtic manager after his side swept aside Rangers, something that has 'strengthened' his chances of succeeding Rodgers.

The report indicates that the Irishman is attracted to taking on the reigns until the end of the season. Nevertheless, the Bhoys' upcoming results against FC Midtjylland and Kilmarnock will determine their next course of action.

Of course, having led Celtic to seven trophies between 2000 and 2005 and their famous run to the UEFA Cup final in Seville, his credentials cannot be questioned. Still, the club's hierarchy are very much doing their due diligence elsewhere.

St Mirren await in the Premier Sports Cup final and the lure of potentially picking up another piece of silverware is something O'Neill could find hard to ignore.

Celtic could still make a shock move to appoint a different former manager

Ultimately, Dermot Desmond will have the final say, but an extended period in charge after a blistering start to life back in the Celtic dugout may be the sensible solution at Parkhead if top candidates prove unattainable.