Martin O’Neill plays down Celtic’s 7-1 ‘statement’ win over Hearts

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill played down suggestions that his side sent a title statement following an emphatic 7-1 William Hill Premiership victory over Hearts at Celtic Park. Celtic raced to a 5-1 lead by half-time through early goals from Kieran Tierney and Benjamin Nygren, a brace from Callum Osmand, and an own goal by Jamie McCart after Mika Baur's run. Camilo Duran and Nygren scored in the second half, while Laurent Mendy scored a late consolation for Hearts.

O'Neill noted that it is too early in the campaign to consider the win a statement, warning that title leads can erode quickly. He also confirmed that Osmand was substituted as a precaution due to hamstring tightness. Hearts head coach Wouter Vrancken attributed the heavy loss to early goals conceded from corners and costly individual mistakes.