As Celtic gears up for their upcoming match against St Mirren on Saturday, manager Martin O'Neill has taken the opportunity to address several key issues concerning the team and the broader context of Scottish football. The discussion comes as the club navigates a challenging season marked by significant changes and expectations.
One of the most pressing topics O'Neill touched upon is the decision to not allow away fans at matches between Celtic and their fierce rivals Rangers this season. He expressed that while this outcome was somewhat expected, it is still a disappointing situation from the perspective of the average supporter. O'Neill emphasized that these derby matches are among the most exciting fixtures in the Scottish Premiership, and the absence of away fans diminishes the atmosphere and excitement that typically accompanies these encounters.
In terms of player acquisitions, O'Neill expressed satisfaction with Celtic's transfer window activity. He noted that the club has successfully brought in new players, which he is 'really pleased' about. He highlighted the importance of maintaining player health, stating that as long as the squad can avoid serious injuries, he is content with the current roster. O'Neill acknowledged that while it would have been ideal to secure new signings earlier in the window, he is eager to move forward with the players now in place.
During the final days of the transfer window, five of the six new signings were secured through loan agreements. While O'Neill recognized that relying on loan players can sometimes be a concern, he believes it ultimately depends on the individual player's capabilities and how they fit into the team dynamic. This pragmatic approach reflects O'Neill's experience and understanding of the complexities involved in team building.
However, not all new signings were eligible for immediate competition. O'Neill confirmed that three players—Landon Emenalo, Shim Mheuka, and Joel van den Berg—had to be left out of the league phase Europa League squad. He remarked that while it would have been preferable to have all players available, the primary focus remains on the league, which he referred to as the club's 'bread and butter.'
On the injury front, O'Neill provided updates on Kieran Tierney and Kasper Hogh, both of whom missed the recent match against Aberdeen. He indicated that both players are recovering well and could potentially return for the upcoming fixture against St Johnstone on September 9. Their return would be a significant boost for Celtic as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the league.
Looking ahead to the match against St Mirren, O'Neill praised Craig McLeish's side, describing them as 'an absolute delight' this season. This acknowledgment underscores the competitive nature of the league and the challenges Celtic will face as they strive for success.
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