Martin O’Neill has admitted Celtic’s habit of leaving it late in the Scottish Premiership is taking its toll, even if the results keep going their way.
Reflecting on yet another dramatic winner, O’Neill conceded the trend is far from ideal. He acknowledged that while grinding out victories in the dying moments shows resilience, it is not something the team can rely on week after week. He joked that the tension is not doing his health any favours, describing the experience as draining and relentless. Looking around at his younger coaching staff, he suggested they may cope better with the pressure, but for him it is exhausting.
The late heroics have certainly boosted the reputation of Julian Araujo, whose decisive goal has intensified speculation over a permanent switch in the summer. Reports indicate Celtic are keen, though any deal could prove complicated. The current loan agreement with Bournemouth does not include an option to buy, meaning negotiations would need to start from scratch.
To make space for Araujo, Celtic appear ready to part ways with Anthony Ralston. According to Football Insider, the club are open to selling the 27 year old right back as they reshape the squad ahead of next season.
Ralston has spent six years at Celtic Park but has found opportunities limited in the current campaign. He has started 12 league matches and has missed the last three matchday squads, with Araujo’s arrival further reducing his minutes. Should Celtic succeed in striking a permanent deal for the Bournemouth defender, Ralston’s path back into the side would look increasingly narrow.
It would be a ruthless call, yet Araujo’s immediate impact is difficult to ignore. If Celtic are serious about reclaiming dominance in the Scottish Premiership, decisive squad changes may be unavoidable this summer.
Ralston is unlikely to be short of admirers, however. In 2024, Scotland captain Andy Robertson praised him as “unbelievable,” underlining the level Araujo has had to reach to displace him in the pecking order.