Celtic boss Martin O’Neill has confirmed that midfielder Arne Engels is set to make his return following the international break…
The 22-year-old Belgium international has been out of action since picking up a thigh problem in last month’s clash with Livingston at Celtic Park, but is now in line to feature in 11 days time against Dundee at Dens Park.
O’Neill suggested Engels’ comeback could provide a timely boost, likening his return to the impact of a new signing during a crucial stage of the season.
Engels attracted strong interest from Nottingham Forest in January, with several late bids turned down – the highest reportedly reaching £25 million including add-ons.
O’Neill also commended Engels for his professionalism amid the transfer speculation, noting that his presence in midfield has been sorely missed in recent weeks.
Speaking via The Scotsman, the Celtic boss said: “He never made an issue. It was what it was. The last offer we got, I didn’t realise until Michael Nicholson told me, was three hours before the deadline. A lot of players would be chomping at the bit saying, ‘I want to go’ because he was going to be earning more money, he was going to be doing a lot of things like that.
“He’s not complained at all. It’s interesting sometimes, it’s only when somebody’s not playing do you actually miss them. I think that would be the case with Arne. But he’s keen to get back and I think after the international break, he should be ready.
“He’s a strong runner. He had scored a goal against Hibs when he dived in and headed it. If he wants to be something, he’ll add a few more goals during the course of a season. A goal-scoring midfield player is worth their weight in gold.”
It remains to be seen whether Celtic’s disastrous 2-0 defeat at Tannadice on Sunday has dealt a decisive blow to their title ambitions.
Now sitting five points behind Premiership leaders Hearts with just seven matches remaining, O’Neill’s side will likely need a near-flawless finish to the campaign if they are to successfully defend their title.
Looking ahead to the final stretch, O’Neill acknowledged that the return of Engels could provide a significant lift, comparing his comeback to the arrival of a new player at a crucial stage of the season.
“That’s true. So now suddenly we are, for the most part, getting players back. The captain is back and now there’s a wee bit of competition for places.
“It’s interesting, the time we needed all the players, we didn’t have it at the time. This is the way it goes.”
Conor Spence
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