Defiant Martin O’Neill reacts to that Celtic interview as he clamps ‘too old for the job’ accusers

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has defended his conduct following criticism over a pre-match television interview with TNT Sports reporter Connie McLaughlin. Ahead of Celtic's 3-1 Europa League defeat to Ferencvaros on Thursday, O'Neill gave a sharp response when questioned about recalling goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo over Sam Johnstone. O'Neill acknowledged that he can get tetchy and accepted he should be questioned over selections, though he maintained he does not need to explain every tactical decision to the media.

Addressing claims from critics that he is too old to manage Celtic at age 74, O'Neill firmly dismissed the concerns by noting that his team won when he was 73. He also rejected suggestions that Celtic are in crisis following back-to-back defeats against Rangers and Ferencvaros, highlighting that his team remains top of the table ahead of their upcoming match against Derek McInnes' side.