Interim manager Martin O’Neill held a press conference ahead of Celtic’s pivotal Europa League match against Feyenoord. The match is scheduled for Thursday, and O’Neill shared several key insights regarding the team’s current situation.
Managerial Update
O’Neill confirmed that there are no new developments regarding the appointment of a permanent manager. He acknowledged that his time as interim manager is drawing to a close, with Wilfried Nancy expected to take the helm soon.
Match Expectations Against Feyenoord
Despite the match being a farewell opportunity, O’Neill expressed a desire for a send-off at Celtic Park instead. He is preparing for a challenging encounter against Feyenoord, highlighting their recent issues but maintaining that Celtic approaches the game with confidence.
He noted that although Celtic secured a last-minute victory against St Mirren, their performance could be improved. O’Neill stated, “It’s going to be a difficult match.”
Historical Context
The clash between Celtic and Feyenoord carries historical significance. O’Neill reminisced about the 1970 European Cup final, where Jock Stein’s Celtic team lost to Feyenoord, marking a disappointing moment in the club’s history. He emphasized the legacy of this rivalry:
- 1970 European Cup final – A notable event where Celtic faced Feyenoord.
- Celtic had previously triumphed over Leeds United in the semi-finals.
- The match added a rich layer of history between the two clubs.
Injury Concerns
Injury issues have plagued O’Neill’s short tenure. Notable striker Kelechi Iheanacho, who has been sidelined for six matches, is returning but may not be fully fit for this clash. Left-back Marcelo Saracchi has resumed training, which offers hope for additional squad depth.
O’Neill remarked, “If the players could stay injury-free, that would be great.” He noted the need for quality players to remain available for optimal performance.
Conclusion
Celtic faces Feyenoord in a match charged with historical significance and high stakes. O’Neill’s insights provide a glimpse into the team’s preparations and challenges ahead of this crucial Europa League encounter.
