Former Partick Thistle manager Ian McCall has shared his view on where Celtic are most likely to look for reinforcements during the January window through Martin O’Neill.
Speaking as Martin O’Neill continues his early work after returning to the club, McCall focused on the influence O’Neill carries beyond Scotland. His comments offered a grounded take on how Celtic may approach recruitment in a difficult month.
Celtic remain active without rushing into major moves. Performances have improved since O’Neill’s return, but the squad is still short in key areas. The focus now is on support rather than overhaul.
January is rarely a clean window for clubs chasing a title. Options narrow quickly and deals become more about availability than long-term planning. That reality shapes how clubs behave.
O’Neill’s wider standing in the game has become part of the discussion. His role outside Celtic gives him reach that most managers do not have. McCall believes that could guide where Celtic turn next.
He said: (BBC Sportsound), “His (Martin O’Neill’s) contact books in England will be massive. I mean, he’s the chairman of the LMA.
“I mean, he’ll know every single person and all the players down there. You know, it’s a notoriously difficult month. Of course it is.
“I would say, for me, that is where they’re going to recruit from because it’s short term.
“But I don’t think they need seven or eight players. I think they need two or three.”
McCall’s comments point clearly towards England as the most likely market. Familiarity and relationships matter when time is tight. Loans and short-term deals are often easier to complete there.
Celtic have already shown a willingness to look in that direction. Recent links suggest flexibility rather than commitment. That matches the tone of O’Neill’s early remarks.
Recruiting from England also reduces the need for long adjustment periods. Players understand the pace and physical side of the game. That can be important during a congested run of fixtures.
McCall’s suggestion that only a small number are needed stands out. Celtic are not rebuilding from the ground up. They are looking to strengthen what is already there.
Recent matches have shown signs of stability returning. Structure has improved and confidence is growing. Additions are meant to support that progress.
January signings always carry risk. Short-term thinking can solve immediate problems but create others later. Clubs must weigh that carefully.
McCall’s view reflects realism rather than optimism. He does not expect dramatic change. His focus is on practicality.
O’Neill’s knowledge of the English game is extensive. Years of experience and relationships give him options others may not see. That access can speed up decisions.
Celtic supporters remain cautious. They have seen windows drift by before without delivery. Clear thinking matters more than volume.
The idea of two or three additions feels measured. It avoids panic and keeps the squad balanced. That approach fits the current situation.
England offers depth across levels. Players on the fringes of squads can become available quickly. That is often where January deals are found.
McCall’s comments fit with what is already visible. Celtic are moving carefully rather than loudly. The window is being shaped quietly.
Whether deals are completed will define how this period is judged. Intent alone is not enough. Outcomes matter.
O’Neill’s influence could prove decisive. His ability to pick up the phone matters in January. Few managers have that reach.
The coming weeks will show whether England delivers the answers Celtic need. The pathway is there. The connections exist.
Celtic’s task is to choose wisely. Two or three right additions could make a difference. Anything more may be unnecessary.
McCall’s contribution adds context rather than certainty. It frames expectations sensibly. That may be the healthiest way to view the window.
January windows rarely reward patience alone. They reward clarity and speed. Celtic now appear to have both.
If England becomes the source, it will not be by accident. It will reflect trust in O’Neill’s experience. That trust is now shaping the window.
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