Chris Sutton has given his reaction to Celtic’s 3-1 defeat against Midtjylland in the Europa League, describing it as a “sobering night” for the club while insisting that the result was no great surprise.

The former Celtic striker took to social media to share his thoughts shortly after the final whistle, where he expressed concern over the team’s direction and urged the board to move quickly to appoint a new permanent manager.

Martin O’Neill’s side were comfortably beaten in Herning, conceding three first-half goals before Reo Hatate’s late penalty offered minor consolation. Despite the disappointing result, Sutton was quick to defend O’Neill, who returned as interim boss last month following Brendan Rodgers’ departure.

The ex-striker, who enjoyed huge success playing under O’Neill during his time at Celtic Park, praised his former manager for steadying the ship with back-to-back wins over Falkirk and Rangers. However, he also warned that O’Neill’s legacy could be at risk if he remains in charge beyond the short term.

Sutton’s comments make it clear that O’Neill’s return should only be a short-term fix before a new manager is brought in. The 72-year-old has given the team some much-needed guidance in a difficult spell, but the defeat in Denmark showed just how much work lies ahead for the next boss.

Fans still hold O’Neill in huge regard, and no one wants to see his reputation affected by the current team’s struggles. He remains one of the most respected figures in the club’s modern history.

Soccer Football – Scottish League Cup – Semi Final – Celtic v Rangers – Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland, Britain – November 2, 2025 Celtic interim manager Martin O’Neill celebrates their third goal scored by Celtic’s Callum Osmand Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith

Attention now turns back to the league, with Kilmarnock coming to Celtic Park on Sunday. After a tough night in Europe, a win is essential to lift the mood and rebuild confidence.

Sutton’s message is a reminder that Celtic need to act quickly and bring in a new manager who can steady the club, set clear direction, and build for the long term.

2 COMMENTS

  1. You can’t unscramble an egg.
    MON is a legend, will always be loved, even he’d admit this crop of “stars” is pish. But at least the board and Brendan Fraudgers got paid, getting gay on our money.
    The board have been negligent, MON is a temporary reprieve and a get out of jail card while the heat is on them. Sleekit self serving geriatric ginger pubes, gettaefuck

  2. Would prefer masel, if Mon and SM, noo tae hold ontae what has become a grand roaster of all poisoned chalice’s.

    Doubt if anyone wull want tae turn about Cfc Plc’s (or tha present injury blighted) squad of nae hopers.

    Tha Hoops are noo, a shi7ey ghost mirror of their former selves.

    So why, ohhh, why, would someone take that on (in Late November) is a quandary, my mind cannot grasp at present.

    Next February there may be a answer, then on, Late May, early June, some person will be appointed.

    So tae Mon and SM, don’t book yur Xmas/spring hols just noo!!!!!!!

    Yae may be needed. CFC Plc very seldom do clear ootz in January!!!!!!!!!!

    And spend less on tha squad, and much
    mer oawn booze and stripperz and lottery scratcherz.

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