Martin O’Neill insists he is happy with Celtic’s summer transfer business after being asked directly about the club’s failed move for Gvidas Gineitis.
Gineitis, though, had been on Celtic’s radar for much of the summer. The Lithuanian international’s profile made sense for what O’Neill’s side were trying to add, particularly after Arne Engels left the club for West Ham.
But despite Celtic’s interest, the deal collapsed before the Europa League squad deadline.
Asked at his Friday press conference if he was satisfied overall with the transfer window, and whether missing out on Gineitis was a disappointment, O’Neill kept his answer short.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “No, no. I’m really pleased with what we have now at this minute.
“So, honestly, not a problem.”
It was a diplomatic answer from the Celtic boss, who now has to focus on the squad in front of him rather than the players who did not arrive.
Van den Berg gives Celtic a permanent midfield addition, while Sørensen offers another running option in the middle of the pitch. Both players will now be expected to make an impact quickly, particularly with the fixture schedule tightening after the Europa League draw.
Still, the Gineitis deal remains one of the more frustrating near-misses from Celtic’s window. Torino were open to selling at the right price, but the Hoops did not manage to close the gap before the deadline passed.
O’Neill may not want to dwell on it publicly, but the question being asked shows how much attention that failed pursuit attracted among supporters.
Keep Reading
