Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has publicly defended his squad following a difficult period that saw the team suffer defeats in two Europa League group stage matches and two high-profile derby games. Despite these setbacks, O'Neill maintains that there are positive indicators within the team's performance that suggest improvement is on the horizon.

Critics, however, have characterized the team as "flat-track bullies," a term implying that while Celtic may perform well against lower-tier opponents, they consistently struggle when faced with more significant challenges. This narrative has gained traction due to the team’s inability to secure results in crucial fixtures, raising questions about their readiness for top-level competition. While O'Neill remains defiant and focused on the long-term development of the squad, the recent results have intensified pressure on the manager to prove that the team can compete against stronger opposition. The discrepancy between O'Neill’s optimistic assessment and the external criticism highlights a growing divide regarding the team's current capabilities and their potential for success in the remainder of the season.