McNeill captained the Glasgow club to European Cup success in 1967 and also had a spell as team manager.

"Of course I am interested and it's lovely to see people bandying my name about for the job," he said.

McNeill: An all-time Celtic great

The names of two more former Parkhead favourites, Kenny Dalglish and David Hay, have also been linked with the vacancy.

Dalglish has been out of the game since losing his job as Newcastle boss, but previously enjoyed successful spells in charge at Liverpool and Blackburn Rovers.

Brown confirmed he would be leaving prior to Saturday's game with Dundee, which Celtic won 6-1, but will continue to work until the club names his replacement.

His 16-month spell was marked by controversy owing to a dispute with former coach Wim Jansen, who quit after leading Celtic to the Scottish title last season, and a stand-off with players over bonus payments.

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But he has no regrets and said: "I am my biggest critic, but when I look in the shaving mirror I know I gave 100 per cent commitment to the job. I could'nt have given any more effort."

Current team boss Jozef Venglos has refused to be drawn into the matter and Brown added: "I hope with all my heart he won't be affected by my resignation. Jo is an outstanding coach and an outstanding individual."

The choice of his successor falls to club owner Fergus McCann and McNeill feels he may have a difficult task persuading him that he is the right man for the job.

"I believe my credentials and experience would be of great benefit to Celtic in a variety of roles," he told The Sun newspaper.