Chris Sutton has welcomed Celtic’s decision to keep Martin O’Neill in charge for at least another season, but warned the hierarchy that backing the manager in the transfer market is now non-negotiable.
Robbie Keane was heavily linked with the role and held what were described as constructive talks with the club. For a significant period, the former Republic of Ireland striker appeared to be a serious contender.
In the end, Celtic opted for continuity.
O’Neill, now 74, delivered a league and Scottish Cup double after returning to steady the club through another turbulent season. Few gave Celtic much chance when he stepped back into the role, but he managed to drag the side back into contention before sealing silverware in May.
With attention now turning to the summer rebuild, Sutton believes the manager has earned the right to make his own decision on whether to continue. He said (RecordSport):
“Fair play to him. He earned the right to decide for himself if he wanted to carry on but if Celtic had been proactive in any way, the decision might have been made months ago anyway.
“O’Neill covered a multitude of sins last term and he bought Celtic more time to sort themselves out off the pitch again.
“I would argue a lot of those things should have been well under way by now.”
The former Celtic striker’s comments point towards an issue many supporters will recognise. O’Neill’s success last season papered over cracks that still need addressed behind the scenes.
The manager delivered results when Celtic looked to be heading nowhere. That does not remove the need for decisive action in recruitment and squad planning.
Sutton made it clear that O’Neill cannot be expected to pull off another rescue job without significant help from the board.
“O’Neill managed to achieve what I thought was impossible last season but the board can’t just assume he’ll be a miracle worker again this time.
“He will need proper backing. There could be a huge turnover of players this summer and several key men could go.
“Winning the Double might have been unexpected – even for Martin – and it might have prompted a change in heart from the man himself.
“Sticking around for another year at least probably makes sense and at least it will dial down the temperature for some fans who were boiling about the prospect of Keane.”
The focus now shifts to recruitment.
Several departures are expected over the coming weeks and Celtic cannot afford a slow start to the window. Champions League qualifiers arrive in August and the squad already looks short in key areas.
O’Neill proved last season he can still get a tune out of a struggling side. The challenge for Celtic now is making sure he is not asked to perform another miracle. The board have their manager. Supporters will expect them to match that decision with action in the market.
Celtic have no option but to have a 74 year-old man as their manager
Because they no longer believe in their own kind, especially now when it’s rabbi Robbie Keane. lol. How sad is that?