Martin O’Neill Praises Celtic After 4-0 Win, Drops Hint on Underperforming Star Ahead of Rangers Clash
Celtic interim manager Martin O’Neill was full of praise for his side after a convincing 4-0 victory over Falkirk, but he hinted at concerns over one player’s recent performances ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated League Cup semi-final against Rangers.
The Bhoys dominated proceedings at Parkhead, with J. Kenny scoring a first-half brace (30’, 40’), followed by strikes from B. Nygren (58’) and S. Tounekti (73’) to seal a comprehensive win. Celtic looked sharp in attack, organized in defence, and showed a fluidity that will surely boost confidence ahead of their biggest fixture of the week.
“We played some great stuff today,” O’Neill said in his post-match interview. “The way the lads moved the ball, the energy, the focus it was really pleasing to watch.”
Despite the emphatic scoreline, O’Neill confirmed that squad selection for the semi-final against Rangers will not simply be a formality. “For me, it’s made it much easier to assess players and see who’s ready for Sunday,” he added, alluding to a key decision regarding team selection.
The manager later revealed that Liam Scales, one of Celtic’s experienced and influential figures, will not feature in the squad for the Rangers clash. Scales has been a regular starter in recent seasons, known for his defensive solidity and leadership, making the decision a surprise to many.
“We’ll genuinely think about it now…” O’Neill said when asked about team planning. “It’s not easy leaving out players of Liam’s quality, but we have to consider tactics, balance, and the right combination for this game. Every player knows their role, and there are several options to adapt if needed.”
Celtic’s performance against Falkirk offered plenty of encouragement. J. Kenny’s double in the first half showcased his movement and finishing, giving the team a strong foundation. Nygren’s strike midway through the second half demonstrated precision and composure, while S. Tounekti’s late goal capped off a dominant display that highlighted the depth of attacking talent in the squad.
O’Neill’s comments about the underperforming player Scales in this case underscore the interim manager’s commitment to accountability. “You always want your key players firing on all cylinders,” he explained. “But sometimes performances dip, and it’s up to me to make the best decisions for the team. Liam is a top professional, and he understands that.”
With the League Cup semi-final against Rangers looming, the pressure is already building. O’Neill’s Celtic will need to balance confidence from their recent win with the intensity of one of Scottish football’s fiercest rivalries. The decision to leave out a star player adds an extra layer of intrigue and tactical intrigue ahead of Sunday.
Fans are likely to be watching closely, both for the team’s performance and how O’Neill’s squad management will impact such a high-stakes fixture. Analysts suggest that leaving out a key figure may signal a focus on flexibility, speed, and attacking options rather than relying solely on experience.
Celtic’s preparation now shifts to fine-tuning strategy, recovery, and mindset, as O’Neill emphasizes the importance of unity and focus. “It’s about preparation and execution,” he said. “We respect Rangers, but we also believe in our squad. Every player has a part to play, and we’re committed to giving our best on the day.”
Sunday promises a high-intensity showdown, with Celtic aiming to carry their momentum from the Falkirk victory into a fiercely contested semi-final. Whether O’Neill’s tactical choices, including the omission of Liam Scales, pay off remains to be seen but one thing is certain: the Bhoys are ready to make a statement.
