Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has decided to stay at the club after reflecting on his future during the international break.
The 74-year-old had faced questions about his future following three consecutive defeats. Two of those losses came against Celtic’s fierce rivals, Rangers.
The poor results raised speculation that O’Neill might retire. However, discussions with the club’s board helped him decide to continue as Celtic manager.
O’Neill declares himself ready
O’Neill has made his intentions clear. He wants to lead Celtic forward and challenge for the Scottish Premiership title.
Speaking to Sky Sports, the Northern Irishman said:
“We had a difficult week. It can happen.
“You can lose to your arch-rivals, you can lose a European game. It’s certainly not the end of the world as it seemed to be described.
“But [I’m] ready to go. I did think I would take a little bit of time and it didn’t take me that much time to think about it.
“I want to lead the club, I want to try and win the league, which is what we set out to do, and just as determined now as ever before.
“It was a time of reflection for a moment or two and, yes, some things that you think about. But overall, I’m back, I’m raring to go and the team’s ready.”
His comments show that O’Neill remains focused on Celtic’s title ambitions. He also appears ready to put the recent defeats behind him and move forward.
‘An interesting month ahead’
Following O’Neill’s announcement, Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph offered his thoughts on the situation.
“Martin O’Neill was never going to be sacked by Celtic after three humiliating defeats in one week before the international break – but there was a real potential of him walking away from the job,” Joseph stated.
“Celtic have always remained calm about the situation despite the recent results. There was no appetite to pull the trigger themselves, especially when the teams are sitting at the top of the league.
“That was proven when Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson backed O’Neill in a statement announcing the club’s latest financial results.
“The ball has been completely in O’Neill’s court and, as he has said, he very quickly indicated his intention and desire to stay.
“Celtic face a tricky next five games back – Motherwell away, Benfica away, Hearts at home, Celta Vigo at home, and Hibernian away.
“It’s going to be an interesting month ahead for O’Neill and Celtic.”
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