Headline: Celtic Seeks Champions League Progress Amidst LASK Pressure, Says O’Neill
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill held a media briefing ahead of the Champions League play-off second leg against LASK, scheduled for Tuesday.
During the conference, O’Neill acknowledged that his team anticipates facing significant pressure as LASK, currently trailing 3-0 on aggregate, aims for a comeback. However, he affirmed that Celtic will not adopt a defensive strategy to hold on to their lead.
O’Neill expressed confidence in his team’s attacking chances but refrained from confirming whether a single goal would suffice for progression to the Champions League proper.
On the topic of transfers, O’Neill stated he would focus on that issue post-game but expressed hope for potential signings before the transfer window closes.
He emphasized that regardless of whether Celtic qualifies for the Champions League or the Europa League, the squad will be bolstered. O’Neill suggested that making it to the Champions League would deliver a substantial boost in all areas of club operations.
Finally, O’Neill expected both teams to create opportunities during the match and assured that his players would exert their utmost effort to secure advancement.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has been talking to the media before Tuesday’s Champions League play-off second leg against LASK.
Here are the best bits from his news conference:
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O’Neill expects Celtic “to be put under pressure” with LASK trailing 3-0 on aggregate, but insists Celtic will not sit in and defend their lead.
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He fancies his team to score, but would not be drawn on whether a single goal would be enough to secure progression to the Champions League proper.
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On potential transfer business, O’Neill says he will not think about that until after the game, but hopes there will be incomings before the end of the window.
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O’Neill believes his squad will be strengthened regardless of whether they are in the Champions League or Europa League, but admits reaching the Champions League would provide a “massive lift in every aspect”.
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He expects both teams to have chances in the game and says his team will give everything to progress.
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