In this video
“…it's a real surprise because I'd never counted the games. Genuinely never.”
- Asked how far Celtic can go, O'Neill said tomorrow is a major test. Stuttgart are fourth in the Bundesliga and very strong and physical, but while Celtic are there, they should go for it.
- O'Neill thinks you dream about the final when a competition starts, then reality hits very quickly. With the teams still left in it, the final is a long way away in his mind.
- Reminded that Celtic's last European knockout win came against Barcelona under him, O'Neill joked that he should not be blamed for the years in between. It would genuinely be nice to end the wait.
- O'Neill agreed the empty seats are regrettable, as a full house is special. He was not party to the talks but, as he understands it, some progress has been made, and the sooner there is unity the better.
- Asked whether he would be open to staying beyond the summer, O'Neill said that is genuinely too far in the future. How he feels today might be totally different in 10 days' time.
- Asked whether this squad can cope like his 2003 side, O'Neill said that by 2003 he knew his players inside out. He is still learning about these players, mostly excellent things, so he does not know.
- O'Neill recalled beating Stuttgart 3-1 at home in 2003 and scoring two early goals away, only to be hanging on at the end. Stuttgart were a very fine side, so coming through was big news.
Martin O’Neill press conference ahead of Celtic FC vs VfB Stuttgart in the Europa League as he prepares for his 1000th game as a manager on a huge European night with Celtic FC at Celtic Park
The Hoops Celtic face a serious test against Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart, currently flying high in Germany under Sebastian Hoeneß. O’Neill acknowledges Stuttgart’s physical strength, quality, and Champions League-level form, but insists Celtic must approach the tie with courage, organisation, and belief.
Reflecting on past European nights at Celtic Park including famous knockout victories, O’Neill highlights the importance of unity between players and supporters as Celtic aim to progress further in the Europa League.
Can Celtic mark O’Neill’s 1000th game with a statement European performance?
