Martin O’Neill might not always be front and centre during training, but moments like the latest clip from Lennoxtown show he is far from distant.
In a short video released by the club, the Celtic boss is seen sneaking up behind Hyun-jun Yang and nicking the ball from his feet before sharing a laugh with the winger. It’s a small moment, but it says plenty about the dynamic between the pair.
Yang’s reaction stands out. There’s no hesitation, just a smile and a quick embrace. That kind of interaction doesn’t happen without a level of trust, especially from a player who has had to fight for his place this season.
The South Korean started the campaign on uncertain ground. There was talk around his future, and he wasn’t seen as a guaranteed starter. That has changed as the season has gone on.
O’Neill has leaned on him more during his time in charge. Injuries and changes across the forward line have opened the door, but Yang has taken those chances when they’ve come.
His contribution has not been perfect, but it has been decisive at times. Goals in tight matches and a willingness to run at defenders have given Celtic a different option out wide.
That matters in games where space is limited. When teams sit in, Celtic need players who will take risks and carry the ball into dangerous areas. Yang has shown he is prepared to do that, even when things don’t always come off.
The wider context is also hard to ignore. Replacing the output left behind by Nicolas Kuhn was never going to fall on one player, but Yang has helped fill part of that gap. He has gone from a squad option to someone the manager trusts in key moments.
O’Neill’s role in that shift is clear. Even in a light training clip, there is a sense of involvement. He is not just watching from a distance. He is part of it, pushing players and keeping standards high.
With the season heading towards its final stretch, that relationship could become even more important. Celtic need players who are ready to step up when games tighten.
Yang has already shown he can do that.
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