Celtic defender Auston Trusty has hailed the influence of Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney since the interim duo took charge, saying their arrival has given the squad a much-needed boost in belief and energy.
Trusty, who was man of the match in Sunday’s dramatic 3-1 League Cup semi-final win over Rangers, but also at the centre of post-match controversy, spoke to Celtic TV ahead of Thursday night’s Europa League clash with Midtjylland.
The American was full of praise for Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney’s approach and the instant impact they’ve had on the group.
He admitted he was surprised at just how funny the Irishman was. That wit, that Celtic fans know and love, came across from his very first press conference.
The American, who has been handed back-to-back starts under the interim management team, said:
“Great, as soon as they came in they filled us all with confidence and that’s what we needed. I think we’ve reacted well to the messages and how they come into the team,” Trusty said.
“Obviously, Martin, I didn’t know him personally, but to come in and see his charisma, I didn’t realise how funny he actually is.
“Just to see that and the knowledge the whole entire coaching staff has, it’s been really good. I think we’ve all really reacted to it in a really positive way and that’s the results we’ve seen.”
The defender’s comments reflect a visible lift within the Celtic squad since O’Neill and Maloney stepped in following Brendan Rodgers’ shock resignation last week.
O’Neill has brought his trademark motivation and experience to the dressing room, while Maloney has taken a more hands-on role with tactics, it seems. During extra time at Hampden, it was Maloney who delivered the half-time team talk, showing the clear trust and balance between the two.
Celtic head into tonight’s game in Denmark full of renewed belief, looking to build on the momentum of two straight wins under the new interim setup.
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