Celtic chairman Ian Bankier is still expected to leave his role at Parkhead in the not-too-distant future, according to journalist Stuart Hodge.

The claim comes after the Scottish Daily Mail, via 67 Hail Hail, reported in September that Bankier was thought to be in the final stages of his reign.

What's the latest news involving Bankier?

Bankier has been Celtic's chairman for a decade, having succeeded John Reid in the top job 10 years ago.

In that time, the Hoops had won the Scottish Premiership title every season until arch-rivals Rangers got their hands on the crown last term.

However, that success has not resulted in Bankier being without criticism and supporters' groups the Celtic Trust, the Affiliation of Registered Celtic Supporters' Clubs and the Green Brigade issued a joint statement calling for him to consider his position as chairman close to six years ago. 

Although he opted against quitting, Bankier went on to be blasted for a lack of communication with supporters earlier this year, with his comments being described as 'insulting' after releasing a statement on an underwhelming campaign.

The Celtic Trust also branded Bankier as 'out of touch' a little over a month ago, hitting back after the chairman had said the Glasgow-based club is 'in good hands'.

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What has Stuart Hodge said about Bankier?

Hodge remains confident that Bankier's days as Celtic's chairman are numbered.

It comes after the journalist discovered some intriguing changes to the details of boardroom personnel online.

Hodge told GIVEMESPORT: "These things happen slowly would be the only thing I would say about that.

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"It will be a gradual thing but I think if you look at the change of the LinkedIn statuses of a few key Celtic boardroom personnel, then that will tell you that the wheels are moving.

"It's still expected to happen."

What else has happened behind the scenes in recent months?

Speculation over Bankier's future heightened after chief executive Dom McKay quit the club for personal reasons in September.

It was later reported that tension behind the scenes was a major reason for McKay opting to resign from the post just 72 days after his official appointment.

McKay had initially been revealed as the club's incoming chief executive in January, with the plan being for him to move into the role following Peter Lawwell's retirement.

However, a change of tactics saw McKay head to Parkhead three months ahead of schedule, with him working alongside Lawwell during the final stages of his time as chief executive.

McKay has yet to be replaced in a full-time capacity, with Michael Nicholson taking over as the acting chief executive.