Celtic interim chairman Brian Wilson spoke publicly after Martin O’Neill was confirmed as Celtic manager.
The interim chairman spoke to Celtic TV following the confirmation of Martin O’Neill as manager, covering everything from transfer plans to backing the new boss in the market ahead of a crucial summer.
Supporters made their frustrations known on several occasions. The Celtic Fans Collective organised several protests, including the Europa League clash with Stuttgart, when bouncy balls were thrown onto the pitch in a demonstration against the board’s running of the club.
Wilson acknowledged the role the board played in creating that situation and stressed that everyone at the club must learn from what happened. He said:
“Time and time again, I have said, other colleagues have said, mistakes were made last season; that the board made mistakes, individuals made mistakes.
“All of that has been admitted. But everyone has to look at themselves about their role in the earlier parts of last season.
“And the lesson is that division doesn’t work. Division is bad for the team; it’s bad for the club, and ultimately, it’s bad for success and what we all want to share in.
“So let’s not have repetitions of that. Nobody’s ever going to be united in praise of boards or managers, probably, or anyone else.
“But let these divisions take place outside of the stadium, and let’s have the unity that undoubtedly helped the team over the line in the end last season.”
There is little argument with Wilson’s point about unity.
As Celtic chased down the Premiership title and then completed the job by lifting the Scottish Cup a week later, there was a noticeable shift around the club. The atmosphere inside Celtic Park was relentless. Supporters rallied behind the team and the squad responded when it mattered most.
That connection between the stands and the pitch was a major factor in getting Celtic over the line.
The challenge now is maintaining it.
Words will only carry so much weight after the events of last season. Supporters have heard promises before. What matters now is what follows over the coming months.
The board has already stated that Martin O’Neill will be backed this summer. Fans will expect to see evidence of that backing quickly, particularly with European qualifiers and another title defence on the horizon.
Supporters remain the one constant through every managerial change, every transfer window and every boardroom reshuffle. They have renewed season tickets and bought into the idea of a fresh start.
Now the focus turns to those making the decisions.
The manager is in place, and the support has shown their commitment. The bouncy ball is firmly in the board’s court.
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