Martin O’Neill has praised Liam Scales and Johnny Kenny after the Celtic pair played their part in Ireland’s dramatic push into the World Cup play-offs.
The Hoops interim boss spoke at Lennoxtown after both players reported back in the aftermath of Ireland’s stunning victories over Portugal and Hungary, results that transformed their campaign.
Scales delivered assists in both matches, setting up Troy Parrott in Dublin before repeating the trick in Budapest with a stoppage-time flick that led to the decisive goal. Kenny, meanwhile, made his senior debut in the frantic win over Hungary, capping a breakthrough week for the young striker.
O’Neill was visibly delighted for the pair, who returned to Scotland full of confidence. Their involvement came at a significant time for the national side and offered Celtic a welcome lift during a turbulent period at the club. As O’Neill continues to hold the reins until the new manager arrives, these international moments give him extra options and momentum.
He spoke warmly about their impact, their excitement and the significance of Ireland putting themselves within touching distance of next summer’s tournament. O’Neill knows exactly what World Cup qualification means, and his pride in the Celtic pair was clear.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “Well, you mentioned the two lads and that was really great for them. I’ve spoken to them this morning and I’m naturally delighted. They are so pleased it’s gone through. So, a draw to look forward to some matches again in March time and, with a wee bit of luck, a qualification for the World Cup, which would be fantastic.
“Incredible, really. I noticed something there about Dublin Airport — ‘Troy Parrott Airport’ — which was really great. Yes, fantastic effort.
“It’s interesting. Johnny seemed to be in better condition than Scales. I must have woken them up, to tell you the truth, because I assumed they would have travelled back from Hungary almost immediately after the game.
“Both were in great spirits. Just parking that to the side now, something to really look forward to in March, and with a little bit of luck, continuing that right through to the summer.”
O’Neill’s reaction reflects the scale of Ireland’s turnaround and the importance of Celtic’s players in securing it. Scales has emerged as one of the campaign’s unlikely heroes. His assist against Portugal set Ireland on their way to a huge win, and his stoppage-time contribution in Hungary will be remembered for years. Those moments will only strengthen his standing at Celtic, where competition for defensive places has increased.
For Kenny, the debut marks a milestone in his development. He has been pushing for opportunities and the trust shown by Ireland’s staff suggests belief in his potential. O’Neill’s comments highlight that the player returned buzzing from the occasion, which could influence Celtic’s forward options in the coming weeks.
The timing of their form is useful for the interim boss. With injuries tightening options across the pitch, the returning pair give him energy and confidence in the squad ahead of domestic fixtures. That matters while the club finalises the appointment of the new permanent manager.
Ireland’s achievement has lifted spirits at Lennoxtown and O’Neill’s enthusiasm shows how significant these performances can be for Celtic. With play-off football ahead for the national side and important matches coming for the club, both Scales and Kenny look set to carry the momentum into their next challenge.
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