Celtic assistant coach Shaun Maloney has provided a wide-ranging update on the club's transfer activity and the health of manager Martin O'Neill, who was released from hospital on Thursday after a minor procedure.
With the summer transfer window closing in four weeks and the Champions League play-off first leg against LASK just 12 days away, Maloney addressed the pursuit of Real Oviedo winger Haissem Hassan, the futures of Arne Engels and Alistair Johnston, and the club's recruitment process.
O'Neill's recovery and matchday role
Maloney confirmed he visited O'Neill on Thursday evening, describing him as "in good form" and "loads better" than earlier in the week. He said there is no timeline for the manager's return, with a decision on Sunday's trip to Kilmarnock to be made on Saturday.
If O'Neill is absent, Maloney would step up, but he stressed the squad is prepared: "We've got some brilliant senior players."
Hassan transfer and recruitment process
On Haissem Hassan, Maloney said he is "not too sure" how close a deal is, adding that transfer decisions rest with O'Neill and chief executive Michael Nicholson. He does not expect any ins or outs before the weekend.
Maloney clarified his own role in recruitment: "The manager's the main voice, the main call... The manager will always have the final call."
Squad depth and transfer urgency
Maloney praised the striking options after the £17m signings of Camilo Duran and Kasper Hogh, but admitted "we need that strength and depth in certain other positions." He acknowledged fans might have hoped for more business earlier, saying "in an ideal world, yes," but stressed the club is working hard.
Engels and Johnston interest
On Arne Engels and Alistair Johnston, both linked with moves to England, Maloney said "nothing's changed really." Both players have trained well and have not indicated a desire to leave, with any deeper discussions going through O'Neill and Nicholson.
Jota's return and Kilmarnock preview
Maloney confirmed Jota is still weeks away from full fitness after his first full training session, but called it "really positive news." He expects Jota to need time to return to his best, similar to Cameron Carter-Vickers after a long layoff.
Looking ahead to Kilmarnock, Maloney praised their new pitch and warned of a tough test, noting last season's open game. He confirmed no fresh injury concerns, with Jota the only absentee.
