Martin O’Neill knows exactly what Celtic face on Saturday afternoon as the title race goes to the final day against Hearts at Celtic Park.
The pressure is simple.
Hearts only need a point in Glasgow to become champions, while Celtic have no option other than attacking the game from the start in front of a full Celtic Park.
That reality came through clearly during O’Neill’s press conference on Friday.
The Celtic manager spoke openly about the challenge facing his players, the change in form since the defeat at Tannadice and the role the support has played in dragging the side back into contention over recent weeks.
O’Neill understands the scale of the occasion.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “We have to win it, Hearts don’t.
“We’re going out on all guns blazing to try and win.
“From Tannadice, we’ve woken up.
“The game’s in the balance, really it is.
“The atmosphere will be electric.
“The team has been kept going by the crowd.”
The defeat at Dundee United earlier in the run-in looked at one stage like the result that would cost Celtic the title.
The performances around that period lacked sharpness. The midfield struggled to control games consistently and too many points slipped away in matches Celtic normally dominate at home.
Since then, though, the response has been stronger.
There has been more intensity in the pressing and far more urgency in possession. Celtic’s forwards have also started looking dangerous again when games become stretched late on.
The mood around the stadium has changed with it.
Supporters who were frustrated earlier in the campaign have fully re-engaged with the team during the closing weeks of the season.
Wednesday night at Fir Park only added to that feeling.
Now everything comes down to one match.
And O’Neill clearly believes Celtic Park itself could make the difference if his side are going to get over the line.
