Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has issued a stark warning to his players, stating they must be near-perfect for the remainder of the season if they are to successfully defend their Scottish Premiership crown.
A Tightening Title Race
Despite overseeing a 4-0 victory over Dundee United on Saturday in his first game back in charge, Celtic's fortunes were quickly tempered by results elsewhere. With both Hearts and Rangers securing wins on Sunday, the Parkhead side found themselves dropped back to third place in the table, six points off the pace.
O'Neill, 73, acknowledged the precarious position, highlighting a significant shift from previous campaigns. "This time last year and in quite a number of years, Celtic would be, seemingly from a distance, serenely going to the title," he said. "You might drop some points unexpectedly somewhere, but you’re still so far in front that things are good."
He added with emphasis: "Here we cannot. We’ve got ourselves into a situation where the margin of error is very, very small. That’s the main problem." With 17 games left, starting away at Falkirk on Wednesday, the veteran boss believes the scope for any further slip-ups is now slight.
Stephen Welsh Recall a 'Needs Must' Situation
In other news, O'Neill explained the decision to recall defender Stephen Welsh from his season-long loan at Motherwell was driven by necessity. The 25-year-old had been a key player for the Fir Park side under Jens Berthel Askou, but Celtic activated a January recall clause.
"He’s enjoying himself immensely at Motherwell," O'Neill admitted. "The last thing you want to do is stop someone from really enjoying themselves. He’s having a really, really great season with a team that’s flying."
However, with defensive cover thin, the move was essential. "Really in essence, we at this moment, until we get some recruitments in, it’s needs must," O'Neill stated. He revealed the club currently has only three recognised central defenders, including the inexperienced Dane Murray.
Interestingly, O'Neill left the door open for a swift return, suggesting Welsh could go back to Motherwell before the transfer window closes if Celtic secure their own defensive targets first.
Transfer Activity on the Horizon
Celtic are actively working to bolster their squad during this window. The club is reportedly exploring a deal for Uruguayan international winger Ignacio Laquintana.
The 26-year-old, who currently plays for Brazilian side Red Bull Bragantino, is said to be keen on a move to Glasgow. Discussions are centred on a potential loan agreement with an option to buy the player permanently.
This potential signing signals Celtic's intent to add quality and depth as they embark on a critical second half of the season where, as O'Neill has made clear, anything less than excellence may not be enough.
