Martin O’Neill’s Celtic Journey Sees Ups and Downs Amid Changing Fortunes
Martin O’Neill has faced challenges since returning to Celtic. At 74 years old, he joined the team on an interim basis before committing to a permanent one-year contract. This season has been characterized by both impressive highs and disappointing lows for the team. Currently, the Hoops sit atop the Scottish Premiership after a commanding 7-1 victory over Hearts, yet their cup and European performances have left much to be desired.
A significant setback occurred in September when Celtic suffered a 3-0 defeat at Ibrox, ending their League Cup campaign against Rangers. Further struggles arose in the Champions League play-off, where Celtic squandered a three-goal lead against LASK, relegating them to the Europa League. Their Europa League journey has also started poorly, with defeats against Ferencvaros and Benfica.
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Defensive issues have plagued the squad, intensifying the importance of Camilo Duran’s goals, a summer signing who has made a significant impact. O’Neill continues to search for his optimal lineup, facing a hectic winter schedule that limits opportunities for experimentation.
During the match against Besiktas, the atmosphere in the stadium shifted dramatically in just a minute. After going behind, the Hoops introduced 20-year-old Callum Osmand, who equalized with his first touch, just 43 seconds after entering the fray. He then assisted one of Duran’s two goals in a thrilling 3-2 comeback win, which not only lifted the mood but also rekindled the team’s European ambitions.
What did Callum Osmand say?
Osmand expressed his amazement at the moment. “It’s a really surreal feeling still,” he remarked, noting his limited experience in senior football and hoping for more moments like this in future matches.
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Though O’Neill has deployed him in a wide position this season, Osmand originally joined as a striker and identifies that role as his preference. He tends to drift wide even while playing centrally, making him comfortable in both positions. He values the versatility it brings to his game and is eager to contribute wherever he can fit in.
“I haven’t played a lot of football, but these moments just seem to be getting better and better. I love the sort of feeling that I get from it and hopefully I can keep getting that feeling,” he shared.
“If someone asked me where I play, I’d say striker, but when I play striker, sometimes I’ll drift out anyway, so I don’t mind playing on the wing,” he added, as reported by the BBC.
“I just want to base my game around any of the front three and I think that just gives me another element to my game. I really love playing on the wing as well, so wherever I can get on the pitch.”
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Should Celtic let Osmand’s versatility cap his value as a striker?
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Callum Osmand of Celtic runs with the ball under pressure from Emmanuel Agbadou of Besiktas JK during the UEFA Europa League 2026/27 League Phase MD4 match between Celtic FC and Besiktas JK at Celtic Park on November 05, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images)
While Osmand’s versatility aids O’Neill’s tactical approach, it may come at a cost. In the transfer market, elite central strikers command top dollar, and a young forward pushed to the wing may hinder his statistical output, leading to fewer expected goals per 90 minutes and reduced penalty box activity. When scouts from Europe’s top leagues assess emerging talents, they typically seek specialists.
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Besides financial implications, there are also functional drawbacks. A striker’s effectiveness is tied to making incisive runs, keeping centre-backs engaged, and demonstrating spatial awareness inside the box; extended time on the wing can diminish those instincts.
While using the wing should remain a tactical option, as highlighted by the comeback against Besiktas, the team’s long-term strategy should focus on developing Osmand into a central striker. This approach would not only preserve his potential but also maximize the financial return when he eventually transitions to a more prominent league abroad.
