Martin O'Neill's return to Celtic management has brought with it a mix of emotions and concerns about the team's future prospects. The 73-year-old boss, who was initially lured back in on a temporary basis just 32 days after handing over the reins to Wilfried Nancy, has expressed worries about being considered "too old" for the role.
O'Neill's initial stint at Celtic came to an end eight years ago, but he returned to the club in January following the resignation of Brendan Rodgers. The veteran manager acknowledged that he was apprehensive about taking charge again, fearing that his age would impact his ability to lead the team.
However, O'Neill has stated that he is happy with what the team has achieved so far under his management, particularly in terms of bringing in quality players to strengthen the squad. He noted that securing top-class signings had proven to be a challenge, but was relieved when some of the new recruits started to make an impact on the pitch.
One of the standout performers for Celtic this season is Czech forward Tomas Cvancara, who scored his first goal against Falkirk over the weekend. O'Neill praised the striker's ability and noted that he has brought much-needed quality to the team.
Despite Celtic's improved form, O'Neill remains committed to chasing down leaders Hearts in the Scottish Premiership. The veteran manager acknowledged that his side would face significant challenges in overtaking their rivals, but was determined to give it a go.
"I'd like to be six points clear," O'Neill said when asked about his team's chances of taking the top spot. "Let me put it this way, it has to be. It has to be." The manager's defiance in the face of adversity is a testament to his unwavering commitment to Celtic and its fans.
O'Neill also spoke about the possibility of signing England international midfielder Jack Oxlade-Chamberlain, who was reportedly training at Arsenal when Celtic made their move. If the deal were to happen, it would provide the team with a significant boost in terms of talent and experience.
However, the real challenge for Celtic lies ahead as they look to take on Hearts and dethrone them from the top spot. With only games remaining, O'Neill will need to navigate his team through this critical stretch of the season with aplomb if he is to achieve his goal.
Despite the odds being stacked against him, O'Neill remains optimistic about his side's chances. As one of Celtic's most successful managers in history, he knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level, and he is determined to bring success back to the club.
O'Neill's initial stint at Celtic came to an end eight years ago, but he returned to the club in January following the resignation of Brendan Rodgers. The veteran manager acknowledged that he was apprehensive about taking charge again, fearing that his age would impact his ability to lead the team.
However, O'Neill has stated that he is happy with what the team has achieved so far under his management, particularly in terms of bringing in quality players to strengthen the squad. He noted that securing top-class signings had proven to be a challenge, but was relieved when some of the new recruits started to make an impact on the pitch.
One of the standout performers for Celtic this season is Czech forward Tomas Cvancara, who scored his first goal against Falkirk over the weekend. O'Neill praised the striker's ability and noted that he has brought much-needed quality to the team.
Despite Celtic's improved form, O'Neill remains committed to chasing down leaders Hearts in the Scottish Premiership. The veteran manager acknowledged that his side would face significant challenges in overtaking their rivals, but was determined to give it a go.
"I'd like to be six points clear," O'Neill said when asked about his team's chances of taking the top spot. "Let me put it this way, it has to be. It has to be." The manager's defiance in the face of adversity is a testament to his unwavering commitment to Celtic and its fans.
O'Neill also spoke about the possibility of signing England international midfielder Jack Oxlade-Chamberlain, who was reportedly training at Arsenal when Celtic made their move. If the deal were to happen, it would provide the team with a significant boost in terms of talent and experience.
However, the real challenge for Celtic lies ahead as they look to take on Hearts and dethrone them from the top spot. With only games remaining, O'Neill will need to navigate his team through this critical stretch of the season with aplomb if he is to achieve his goal.
Despite the odds being stacked against him, O'Neill remains optimistic about his side's chances. As one of Celtic's most successful managers in history, he knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level, and he is determined to bring success back to the club.