Martin O'Neill has publicly urged Celtic to demonstrate their true "character" when they face Falkirk, following a disastrous exit from the Champions League play‑offs at the hands of Austrian side LASK. The Scottish champions entered the tie with a comfortable 3-0 advantage after the first leg in Glasgow, a lead that was further extended when captain Callum McGregor struck a deflected shot in the 21st minute of the return match in Austria.
Yet the game turned into a nightmare for Celtic as LASK mounted a spectacular comeback, eventually winning 5-4 on aggregate after extra‑time and consigning the Hoops to the less lucrative Europa League. O'Neill, who previously managed Celtic from 2000 to 2005 and guided the club to a league title and a Scottish Cup last season, understands that the disappointment still resonates deeply with the supporters. "I've learned over the years at this club that you are always one game away from a crisis," the 74‑year‑old said, acknowledging the fragile emotional state of the fanbase.
He also hinted that McGregor, despite missing a training session due to a stomach bug, is expected to be available for the upcoming fixture. The manager reflected on the nature of the loss, describing it as a "major disappointment" to be eliminated while still in control of the tie. "We had the better chances, we were dominating for much of the game, and to let it slip away in that fashion is on me as the manager," O'Neill admitted.
He emphasized the need for the squad to exhibit resilience, saying that the word "character" may be overused but remains essential: "We have to show a lot of character." He also warned that the match against Falkirk could become chaotic, with potential mis‑passes, defensive lapses and even the possibility of conceding an early goal that might inflame the crowd. "There will be moments where the crowd gets restless, and we must stay composed and fight through those periods," O'Neill cautioned.
He drew parallels with his own playing days alongside legends such as Henrik Larsson, Neil Lennon and Paul Lambert, noting that the pressure to perform is a constant in Celtic's history and will not disappear. Reflecting on his long career, O'Neill contrasted the highs and lows he has experienced. "Winning the league last season was a fantastic high, but losing that game the other night was a major low," he said, adding that age does not soften the sting of defeat: "It doesn't get any easier at 74; in fact, it gets worse." Looking ahead, O'Neill outlined Celtic's upcoming Europa League group stage opponents. The club will travel to face Benfica, Union SG, Omonia and Torreense, while hosting Marseille, Ferencvaros, Celta Vigo and Besiktas at Celtic Park.
He expressed both excitement and a sober reminder that the team must move beyond the recent disappointment. "It's tough, I still haven't gotten over Tuesday's game, but we have some big matches coming up.
Marseille and Benfica are on my list, and I haven't even read past that yet," he joked. "But it's not a time for fun and games; Tuesday was a real let‑down, and we have to try to put it behind us." In summary, O'Neill's message to the players and supporters is clear: Celtic must rally, display the resilience expected of a club with a storied legacy, and use the upcoming domestic match as a platform to begin rebuilding confidence before embarking on a challenging Europa League campaign. The manager's blend of candid self‑critique, historical perspective, and forward‑looking optimism sets the tone for what could be a pivotal period in Celtic's season.