Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has brushed aside recent negative comments from former Hoops striker Frank McAvennie. In a week light on breaking Scottish football news, the former forward used his podcast platform to suggest that the current squad has lost its “fear factor” and admitted the team now leaves him completely bored.
O’Neill Claims He “Couldn’t Give a Monkey’s”
When informed of the remarks, O’Neill admitted he was unaware of the critique but took the feedback in his stride. Reflecting on how his perspective has shifted over his career, the manager noted that while he used to get angry about newspaper reports, he is now largely unaffected by outside opinions.
”I really don’t care, honestly,” O’Neill stated. He acknowledged that the club needs to improve and expressed hope for a stronger, more competitive side next season. He also spoke warmly of McAvennie’s personality, calling him a “great character” while jokingly questioning if the pundit has even attended a live match recently.
A Fair Assessment?
Despite his indifference to the noise, the interim boss conceded that much of the criticism aimed at the team is likely justified. He noted that he is still deeply passionate about the sport, but at this stage of his life, he simply isn’t bothered by the inevitable scrutiny that comes with the job.
The statistics certainly support the idea that Celtic has lost some of its spark. Comparing the current squad to the high-scoring eras of Brendan Rodgers or Ange Postecoglou reveals a significant dip in productivity. Last season, the team netted 112 goals. This term, they have managed only 59 so far.
The Scoring Crisis
While fans and pundits debate whether the team is “boring,” the numbers suggest the issue may be personnel rather than tactics. Nearly half of the goals from last year’s century-plus haul were scored by players who have since departed the club. O’Neill remains focused on the future, even as figures like McAvennie remain vocal about the team’s current lack of intimidation on the pitch.