Martin O’Neill Was in No Doubt Naming ‘The Most Underrated Player in Celtic’ and He’s Convinced Nancy’s Failure to Use Him Is Holding the Team Back
Martin O’Neill has hit out at Celtic’s recent performance, insisting that the club are failing to utilise what he believes is their most underrated player, and warning that this tactical oversight is contributing to damaging results. The former Hoops manager’s comments came in the wake of Celtic’s heavy 3–0 defeat to AS Roma at Celtic Park in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night a result that leaves lingering questions over Wilfried Nancy’s team selection and strategic approach.
Celtic’s night was summed up early when defender Liam Scales inadvertently turned a cross into his own net inside the opening six minutes, gifting Roma an early lead. The Italian visitors led by goals from Evan Ferguson just before half-time had the match largely under control, leaving Celtic to trudge off to a chorus of boos and a sense that something fundamental is awry at Parkhead.
In his analysis on live television after the game, O’Neill did not shy away from criticism. “There’s no doubt in my mind who Celtic’s most underrated player is,” he said. “This individual has the ability to change games, to bring energy and creativity into the side yet he’s barely been given a run of games. You can’t win football matches if you’re not playing your best players, and that’s clear for everyone to see.”
While O’Neill stopped short of a personal attack on Nancy, he was unequivocal in his belief that the manager’s reluctance to integrate this player consistently is part of why Celtic’s performances have lacked cohesion and cutting edge. “It’s simple,” O’Neill added. “Play the people who give you a platform to compete. If you don’t, these kinds of results happen.”
Celtic arrived at the Roma fixture with supporters eager for a strong European showing, but instead saw their campaign stall dramatically. Despite some second-half possession, the hosts were unable to penetrate a well-organised Roma defence, and a missed penalty by Arne Engels before half-time summed up their frustrations.
Nancy, who only recently took charge at Parkhead, reiterated in his own post-match comments that the defeat was “a difficult night” but urged patience as he works to implement his vision at the club. “We must stick together,” Nancy said. “The players gave their all and we’ll learn from this.”
But O’Neill, whose managerial tenure at Celtic included multiple domestic titles and memorable European nights, believes the team’s issues go beyond simple adjustment. “We’ve seen glimpses here and there,” he observed, “but consistency is key. And that means picking a side that understands how to control games, how to build momentum and importantly, how to get the best out of the players you have.”
According to O’Neill, the underrated player in question Luke McCowan has shown flashes of exactly the kind of quality Celtic need in matches where they have struggled to break opponents down. McCowan’s ability to link play, drive forward with purpose and inject urgency in midfield, O’Neill argues, has been underused by Nancy this season. “Every time McCowan has been involved, there’s a real sense of direction. That’s not a coincidence,” he said.
The disparity in performance was evident against Roma, where Celtic’s attempts to dominate possession repeatedly broke down in the final third. Roma’s early opening the own goal and two clinical finishes from Ferguson put the game beyond reach before half-time, leaving Nancy’s side exposed.
Supporters at Celtic Park were visibly frustrated, with pockets of the crowd voicing dissatisfaction during and after the match. Social media and fan forums lit up with discussions about tactics, team selection, and whether Nancy’s strategy is suited to European competition particularly against well-drilled units like Roma.
Critics have pointed out that while Celtic’s squad has talent, the balance and rhythm of the side have been inconsistent. O’Neill’s comments have added fuel to that debate, with many fans echoing his view that key performers should be trusted to influence big games more regularly.
With Celtic’s Europa League hopes now in jeopardy they sit on seven points with two group games remaining the pressure is mounting on Nancy to find answers quickly. Upcoming fixtures will be critical, not just for European progression but for restoring confidence among supporters and within the dressing room.
For his part, O’Neill remains clear about his stance. “You don’t need to tear things down to build them up,” he said, “but you do need clarity, and you need your best players involved. That’s football. We’re seeing what happens when that doesn’t happen.”
Whether Nancy will take that advice on board remains to be seen. But as Celtic regroup ahead of domestic and European challenges, O’Neill’s outspoken critique will undoubtedly continue to resonate with fans and perhaps with the manager too.
