The 74-year-old says he will reflect on whether he can still help the team, after a week that saw Celtic beaten twice by Rangers with a home European defeat sandwiched between.
Martin O’Neill has publicly questioned whether it might be time to step away from Celtic, hours after a second defeat by Rangers in a week left the club reeling despite still sitting top of the Premiership. The 74-year-old’s comments came in the post-match news conference following Sunday’s derby loss at Celtic Park, with a home European defeat by Ferencvaros wedged between the two Old Firm setbacks. It was a difficult week for a manager considering whether he can still help the side. You can read more on the wider fallout from Celtic’s recent European exit.
O’Neill did not announce a resignation or a board decision. Instead, he said he would reflect on whether he can still help the team, review the games during the week and speak to the board. He also joked about being 110 years old in two years’ time, but his comments indicated that he is considering his future.
An Unlikely Saviour Under Pressure
Context matters. O’Neill returned as an unlikely saviour and salvaged both the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup last season from what had been one of the club’s most tumultuous campaigns. He nearly delivered the Uefa Cup in 2003 against a Jose Mourinho-inspired Porto side who went on to win the Champions League the following year. His standing as one of Celtic’s leading managers is well established, as detailed around his return to the dugout. Celtic remain top of the Premiership despite the recent setbacks.
The collapse against LASK in the Champions League play-off has left a mark on the players and management team. The four Premiership wins that followed were largely unimpressive, with three single-goal victories over Falkirk, St Mirren and St Johnstone. Supporters have raised questions about the quality, breadth and timing of the summer recruitment. James McFadden said the squad had not been strengthened in numbers or quality but had replaced departing players. Chris Sutton criticised the gulf shown against Rangers, while Neil Lennon said O’Neill still has the energy to find answers. There is a fuller discussion of the managerial debate at the wider spotlight on O’Neill’s position.
What Happens Next
For now, O’Neill’s own comments are the clearest guide. He plans to reflect on the games, speak to the board and try to get a couple of days away before seeing how matters develop. No decision or timetable has been announced, only a manager taking stock after a damaging week.
Mon The Hoops.
