Breaking: O’Neill Urges Celtic to Push for Europa League Knockouts, Despite Fans’ Frustration Over Lack of Transfer Activity
Celtic’s O’Neill Eyes Europa League Progress, Emphasizes Club’s European Ambitions
Celtic Park, Glasgow – Manager Martin O’Neill is bullish about Celtic’s chances in the Europa League, urging his side to go for victory against Utrecht and potentially secure a place in the knockout stages.
O’Neill: We Want to Give It a Go
Martin O’Neill, the interim manager of Scottish champions Celtic, is not one to shy away from a challenge. Ahead of the crucial Europa League clash against Utrecht, O’Neill has called on his players to go for victory.
“We got a result in Feyenoord and fought our guts out in Bologna,” O’Neill said. “We don’t now want to just throw it away. We want to try and go for it if we can. We could still lose the game. We might not win the match and we might go out of the competition, but we want to give it a go.”
Utrecht: A Hurdle, Not a Roadblock
Utrecht, currently languishing in 11th place in the Eredivisie, might seem like a formidable opponent, but O’Neill is not one to underestimate any team. He knows that progress in the Europa League is a must if Celtic are to maintain their credibility.
“Ifs, buts and maybes are, however, the story of Celtic’s messy campaign,” O’Neill acknowledged. “But we first need to qualify. It could give us renewed enthusiasm.”
Beyond the Europa League: Celtic’s European Aspirations
O’Neill’s involvement in celebrated European moments in Celtic’s history means he is acutely aware of the club’s European heritage. He believes that, regardless of who manages the club in the future, the ultimate goal should be Champions League football.
“I don’t care who is going to manage this club, that’s what you aim for,” O’Neill said. “It’s what the club is there for. It will be the same for the club across the road. That is what the two clubs are built on so you’ve got to go for it.”
O’Neill: We’re a Good Distance Away, But…
O’Neill is under no illusions about the challenges Celtic face in reaching the Champions League. However, he remains optimistic about the club’s prospects.
“We’re a good distance away from that at this minute,” he admitted. “But that’s what you should be aiming for. Why not? Whether we are good enough to compete in this competition, that’s in the lap of the gods. But that’s where the club should be aiming for.”
FAQ
Q: Who is Martin O’Neill?
A: Martin O’Neill is a former footballer and manager, currently serving as the interim manager of Celtic FC.
Q: What is Celtic’s current standing in the Europa League?
A: Celtic are currently in the Europa League group stage, with a crucial match against Utrecht upcoming.
Q: What are Celtic’s European ambitions?
A: Celtic aspire to qualify for the Champions League, as highlighted by interim manager Martin O’Neill.
Pro Tip: Remember the Glory Nights
O’Neill’s reminder of Celtic’s European glory nights, such as the Champions League point secured at the Camp Nou, serves as a timely reminder of the club’s rich history and potential for future success.
Did You Know?
Celtic are one of only three clubs to have won the European Cup, alongside Real Madrid and Ajax. The Hoops achieved this feat in 1967, becoming the first British club to lift the prestigious trophy.
Call to Action
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