Callum McGregor has spoken openly about Martin O’Neill’s future after Celtic’s stunning 3–1 win over Feyenoord, as speculation grows that the interim boss could be offered a senior role behind the scenes once Wilfried Nancy arrives next week.
With reports suggesting O’Neill may be considered for a position upstairs after revitalising the squad during his short spell in charge, the Celtic captain was asked whether the club should look to keep the legendary manager involved beyond Sunday’s trip to Easter Road.
McGregor has worked under O’Neill for only a matter of weeks, but the midfielder made clear just how big an impact the Irishman has had.
Results have improved, the mood around the squad has lifted, and belief, badly dented earlier in the season, has been restored.
With supporters calling for O’Neill to remain part of the club structure and pundits tipping him for a director of football or advisory role, McGregor was inevitably drawn into the conversation.
While careful not to overstep, the captain’s admiration for O’Neill was obvious. He highlighted the energy the 73-year-old has brought back to the dressing room and the professionalism he has shown during a period of uncertainty for the club.
O’Neill’s European win in Rotterdam, Celtic’s first in the Netherlands since 2001, has only strengthened the feeling that his influence should not end when Nancy officially takes charge.
As speculation builds over the direction Celtic will take off the pitch, particularly with pressure mounting on chairman Peter Lawwell, McGregor’s comments added weight to the growing belief that O’Neill still has more to offer.
He said: (TNT Sports), “Kind of sums it up in Europe for him, didn’t it? So, outstanding to even have the drive and the appetite to come in and do the job at this age.
“He’s been amazing, you know. He’s really lifted the club and players have responded really, really well. He’s responded so well to it as well.
“And like I said, if that’s to be his last one, then it kind of sums up his European run. Absolutely outstanding.
“Obviously, probably not a question for me. We’ve really enjoyed working with him and obviously he’s a legend at the club.
“So, to come in and work with him firsthand has been amazing. Like I said, probably not a question for me, but I think he’ll need a wee rest after this.”
McGregor’s comments made it clear how much the players think of O’Neill, real respect, genuine gratitude and an appreciation for the lift he’s given the club at a time when it badly needed one. His words also showed the emotional side of O’Neill’s return, something that has struck a chord both in the dressing room and among supporters.
Whether Celtic decide to keep O’Neill on in a formal role is still uncertain, but the captain’s view explains why the idea is gathering pace.
With Sunday’s trip to Hibs expected to be O’Neill’s final match in charge, his future has become one of the biggest talking points around the club. McGregor’s praise only strengthens the feeling that O’Neill still has something to offer, whether that’s on the pitch or in a senior role behind the scenes.
As Celtic move towards the Nancy era, the reaction from inside the squad says everything about the impact O’Neill has had, and why many feel his influence shouldn’t simply end when the interim spell does.
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