Paul Lambert: Martin O'Neill's possible departure
According to Bbc.
Context
Martin O'Neill has a long career in the Scottish Premiership, having guided Celtic to numerous trophies between 2000 and 2005. His experience and winning past make him a central figure for the club, but recent difficulties have raised questions about his continued existence. With Paul Lambert expressing concern for O'Neill's future, the situation remains delicate.
Why it matters
Martin O'Neill's situation at Celtic is crucial to the club's future, especially after the recent defeats against Rangers and exit from the Europa League. Paul Lambert, former Celtic captain, underlined the importance of O'Neill, considering him the best manager since Jock Stein. His eventual departure could mark a significant change in the direction of Celtic, a club which has a long history of success in the Scottish Premiership.
Key points
- Paul Lambert: Martin O'Neill's possible departure.
- Martin O'Neill's situation at Celtic is delicate after some defeats, and Paul Lambert says he is surprised by a possible departure of his former manager, underlining the importance of the players in solving problems.
- Martin O'Neill: Celtic can't sack manager, says Lambert - BBC Sport.
Former Celtic captain Paul Lambert has given his thoughts on the current situation at the club and their manager Martin O'Neill, saying he would be "surprised and disappointed" if the manager was sacked. After two consecutive defeats against arch-rivals Rangers and an unexpected exit from the Europa League against Ferencvaros, O'Neill's position has come into question. The 74-year-old coach said he will use the international break to reflect on what happened and how to rectify the situation.
O'Neill returned as Celtic manager in the summer, having led the team in two previous stints as caretaker manager, leading them to a double triumph in the League and Scottish Cup. During his time at Celtic, from 2000 to 2005, he won seven trophies, and Lambert considers him the best manager since the legendary Jock Stein. However, Lambert also stressed that he would not be surprised if O'Neill decided to leave. “I don't think he needs it,” Lambert said. "If he wants to leave, then he will leave of his own accord. He has enough credits built up. Not long ago, people were asking for a statue for him, so you can't go from one extreme to the other so quickly."
O'Neill acknowledged he is not immune to criticism and said: "There's every reason to ask, 'Can you get this back on track?'. I have to look at the big picture right now." Lambert also referred to the impact O'Neill had in stabilizing the club following the departures of Brendan Rodgers and Wilfried Nancy. "There was only one person who could save Celtic last season, and he did it," Lambert said.
However, Lambert did not spare criticism of the players, particularly Cameron Carter-Vickers, who described the team's performances as "too haphazard". He urged players to take responsibility for their actions and resolve problems on the pitch, rather than expecting the manager to give them guidance. “When something is wrong, it's their job to rectify the situation, not wait for a coach to tell them what to do,” Lambert said. "I watched the game and, honestly, it was embarrassing what I heard from Carter-Vickers. I thought, 'Wait, you're not making a movie.'"
In conclusion, Martin O'Neill's situation at Celtic is uncertain, and former captain Lambert hopes that the club can support him, while the players must assume their responsibilities to improve the team's performance.
What happens now
With the international break approaching, O'Neill will have the opportunity to reflect on his strategy and the team's performance. Celtic fans and Scottish Premiership football pundits will be watching his decisions closely over the coming days. The pressure is on, and a positive response could put Celtic back on the right track, while a sacking could lead to a frantic search for a new manager.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Paul Lambert say about Martin O'Neill's situation?
Paul Lambert has expressed that he would be 'surprised and disappointed' if Martin O'Neill was sacked by Celtic.
Why was Martin O'Neill's position called into question?
O'Neill's position has been called into question after two consecutive defeats against Rangers and an unexpected exit from the Europa League against Ferencvaros.
Who confirmed that Martin O'Neill will use the international break to reflect?
Martin O'Neill himself confirmed that he will use the international break to reflect on the current situation.
What changes did Paul Lambert suggest regarding Martin O'Neill?
Paul Lambert suggested that O'Neill could decide to leave the club of his own volition, but also stressed that he doesn't think he needs to.
What is Martin O'Neill's history with Celtic?
Martin O'Neill returned as Celtic manager in the summer, having led the team in two previous stints as interim manager, winning seven trophies between 2000 and 2005.
