Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has defended Celtic manager Martin O’Neill following criticism from journalist Bill Leckie after a 3-0 Premier Sports Cup defeat to Rangers. Keown insisted O’Neill’s age is irrelevant and pointed to six straight Premiership wins.
The heavy defeat at Ibrox triggered intense reaction across Scottish football, with Scottish Sun journalist Leckie suggesting the 74-year-old manager lacks the energy required to lift Celtic after damaging set-backs. Speaking on talkSPORT, Keown rejected the claim and accused the writer of premature judgment.
“I hope he’s listening because Bill is trying to write Martin O’Neill off. You are.”
Keown argued that Celtic’s flawless domestic start provided crucial perspective despite the cup exit. “Celtic just won six games in the league going into Sunday so you’re making it – and that’s the way it is in Scotland – all about the Rangers/Celtic result.”
While Celtic hold a five-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership, heavy defeats in cup competitions always bring severe scrutiny. O’Neill’s team selection came under fire at Ibrox, where Celtic struggled to retain possession or compete physically against Rangers. Former goalkeeper Pat Bonner questioned whether Celtic possessed sufficient resolve when Rangers increased the tempo. That loss followed a disappointing European collapse against LASK, leaving O’Neill under pressure to deliver answers.
Keown acknowledged the European failure but stressed that domestic fixtures offer a quick route to redemption.
“If he wins on Sunday he corrects all of that, doesn’t he? Let’s separate (LASK game) as that was an appalling situation to find yourself in.”
With Rangers visiting Celtic Park in the next league fixture, the stakes remain massive for both clubs in the title race.
“But the Rangers Celtic thing now, it’s a massive talking point now because obviously Rangers have beaten them, and can they knock them off their perch?”
Questions surrounding O’Neill’s tactics and squad selection are valid following two poor big-game displays. However, Keown remains convinced the harsh criticism will fire up the experienced manager to secure a convincing response on the pitch.
