Martin O’Neill has issued a stinging putdown against former Celtic striker John Hartson during a recent appearance together. The pair were amongst Celtic stars that appeared at the Hydro as part of a Q&A with players like Stan Petrov, Lubo and Henrik Larsson with the former boss appearing too.
O’Neill, who is known for his quick, dry wit, poked fun at Hartson’s lack of mobility on the field during his playing days in front of a brilliant audience in Glasgow last night.
“I know your lovely family is here but I have to tell them you were the laziest player I ever managed.
“I shouted at you during one game, John get warmed up you’re coming off.”
Martin O'Neill said of John Hartson last night – "I know your lovely family is here but I have to tell them you were the laziest player I ever managed. I shouted at you during one game, John get warmed up you're coming off."
Brilliant 😂😂😂 @JohnHartson10 pic.twitter.com/9IUcfMwcKl
— Jamie Boyle Author 📚 (@jamieboyle10) November 30, 2021
Hartson has the Celtic badge tattooed on his arm as well as ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ underneath. The big striker has a close bond with the club’s support and is fondly remembered as being one of Martin O’Neill’s most trusted lieutenants, even if he was a big nuisance of a player.
In his time at Celtic Park, the Welshman scored 110 goals and would leave Paradise with three league titles, two Scottish Cups and one Scottish League Cup. Since retiring, Hartson has been involved with punditry often discussing the club’s affairs even if some of his views are over the top, it is clear that he has a deep affection for the club.
