Martin O’Neill has never shied away from making bold decisions. That approach is exactly why he was, and remains, a successful Celtic manager.
During Celtic’s Scottish Cup victory over Auchinleck Talbot, O’Neill rang the changes, naming a side with ten alterations from the team that defeated Falkirk in midweek.
The Celtic boss stood by his selection, explaining that the match provided a chance for squad players to stake their claim while also allowing key figures a rest.
However, when O’Neill made the decisive move to substitute James Forrest during the match, BBC pundit Ryan Stevenson suggested the experienced winger should have been ‘raging’ at the decision – albeit with a qualification.
Ryan Stevenson admits he wouldn’t stand up to Celtic boss if subbed like Forrest
O’Neill opted to withdraw Forrest shortly after half-time at Rugby Park, a call Stevenson felt was harsh given the winger’s contribution, which he believed was the best among the Celtic players.
Despite claiming Forrest should have been furious, Stevenson conceded that if he were in the same situation under O’Neill, he would not have confronted the Celtic manager.
Stevenson said on BBC Sport website, “I would be raging if I was James Forrest, unless he’s injured.
The fact that he’s not played as much and he’s been playing well today. I think he’s probably been Celtic’s best player.
“I probably wouldn’t say it to Martin O’Neill’s face, right enough but I wouldn’t be happy.”
Forrest, however, failed to truly shine as Celtic overcame Auchinleck to secure their place in the next round of the Scottish Cup, making Stevenson’s assessment somewhat puzzling.
That said, it was not solely the Celtic winger who struggled, as several members of the team delivered underwhelming performances on the day.
James Forrest’s remarkable Celtic appearance total
Forrest holds the distinction of being Celtic’s most decorated player ever. With an incredible 26 major trophies, the winger has experienced unparalleled domestic success in the Hoops.
So far, Forrest has racked up 552 appearances for Celtic, scoring 111 goals and registering 110 assists across a career that now spans more than 17 seasons at the club.
Adding to his legacy, the veteran has found the net in every single season he has represented Celtic, continuing to play his part in the enduring success story at Parkhead.