Scottish Premiership: Celtic boss Martin O’Neill commits future to Bhoys after considering retirement

Manager Martin O’Neill has decided to commit his future to Celtic following a period of reflection during the international break.

O’Neill’s future was in doubt amid rumours of retirement after a run of three straight defeats, which included two abject losses to eternal enemies Rangers.

However, talks with the club’s board have since convinced the 74-year-old to carry on in the Bhoys’ hot seat.

O’Neill declares himself ready

Discussing his decision to stay at Celtic, the Northern Irishman said on Sky Sports: “We had a difficult week. It can happen.

“You can lose to your arch-rivals, you can lose a European game. It’s certainly not the end of the world as it seemed to be described.

“But [I’m] ready to go. I did think I would take a little bit of time and it didn’t take me that much time to think about it.

“I want to lead the club, I want to try and win the league, which is what we set out to do, and just as determined now as ever before.

“It was a time of reflection for a moment or two and, yes, some things that you think about. But overall, I’m back, I’m raring to go and the team’s ready.”

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‘An interesting month ahead’

Following O’Neill’s announcement, Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph offered his thoughts on the situation.

“Martin O’Neill was never going to be sacked by Celtic after three humiliating defeats in one week before the international break – but there was a real potential of him walking away from the job,” Joseph stated.

“Celtic have always remained calm about the situation despite the recent results. There was no appetite to pull the trigger themselves, especially when the teams are sitting at the top of the league.

“That was proven when Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson backed O’Neill in a statement announcing the club’s latest financial results.

“The ball has been completely in O’Neill’s court and, as he has said, he very quickly indicated his intention and desire to stay.

“Celtic face a tricky next five games back – Motherwell away, Benfica away, Hearts at home, Celta Vigo at home, and Hibernian away.

“It’s going to be an interesting month ahead for O’Neill and Celtic.”

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