Lewis Ferguson admits Bologna expect stern challenge from Martin O’Neill’s Celtic

Lewis Ferguson has offered an insight into how Bologna are approaching their upcoming Europa League clash with Celtic, admitting the Italian side are fully aware they face a far sterner challenge now that Martin O’Neill is back in charge at Parkhead.

With their Scottish Cup duty against Auchinleck Talbot safely navigated, Celtic’s attention has turned firmly to Europe. Qualification from the Europa League group remains within reach for the Hoops, but the margin for error is slim. Avoiding defeat away to Bologna and then overcoming Utrecht in the final group fixture would keep those hopes alive, making the trip to Italy a defining moment in their campaign.

Confidence among the Celtic support is noticeably higher than it might have been just weeks ago. Had Wilfried Nancy remained in charge, many fans would likely have approached the game with significant concern. Instead, the return of Martin O’Neill has altered the mood around the club, injecting belief and a sense of familiarity. The recent victory away at Feyenoord has only reinforced the feeling that Celtic are capable of producing results on hostile European ground under experienced leadership.

That shift has not gone unnoticed by Bologna, and Ferguson, a key figure in the Serie A side’s midfield, has acknowledged that O’Neill’s presence on the Celtic bench has changed the dynamic of the fixture. Speaking ahead of the match, the Scotland international suggested his teammates are bracing themselves for a demanding contest against a side that now looks more organised, disciplined, and mentally resilient.

Ferguson also reflected on the circumstances surrounding Wilfried Nancy’s brief and turbulent spell in Glasgow. The former MLS coach was dismissed after just 33 days in charge, following a run of results that fell well short of expectations. Ferguson admitted he felt some sympathy for Nancy, recognising how unforgiving the environment can be at a club like Celtic.

He explained that a poor start leaves little room for recovery, particularly at an institution where success is demanded immediately. Losing six of eight matches simply was not acceptable, and while harsh, Ferguson acknowledged that the club’s decision-makers felt they had no option but to act. In his view, that reality is simply part of modern football, where patience is increasingly rare and results dictate everything.

While Bologna may initially have welcomed the prospect of facing a Celtic side in flux under Nancy, the situation has changed dramatically. O’Neill’s return has restored a sense of stability, and Ferguson believes that makes Celtic a far more formidable opponent. He described O’Neill as a manager who understands the pressures of the job and knows how to maximise the strengths of his players.

Ferguson pointed out that at a club like Celtic, there is rarely time to gradually implement ideas or philosophies. The priority is always to win, with everything else coming second. In that context, O’Neill represents a “safe pair of hands” — someone capable of delivering results quickly while steadying the dressing room.

From Bologna’s perspective, that means preparation for a physical, tactical, and mental battle. Ferguson stressed that his side are fully expecting a tough night, aware that Celtic will arrive in Italy with renewed belief and a clear game plan. O’Neill’s track record, both domestically and in Europe, commands respect, and Bologna know they cannot afford complacency.

For Celtic, the challenge is significant. The club’s history on Italian soil offers little encouragement, with just one victory recorded in the country. That lone success came in 2019, when Neil Lennon guided the Hoops to a memorable Europa League win. Replicating that achievement at the Renato Dall’Ara Stadium would mark another famous chapter in the club’s European story.

However, the sense around the club is that this is a more achievable task with O’Neill back at the helm. His experience, authority, and understanding of European football give supporters confidence that Celtic can compete, even in a demanding away environment. The win at Feyenoord is seen as evidence that the team can rise to the occasion when properly organised and motivated.

As Thursday night approaches, belief and realism coexist among the Celtic faithful. The task ahead is daunting, but not impossible. Bologna, led by a Scottish midfielder who knows Celtic well, are clearly wary of the threat the Hoops now pose.

If Celtic are to keep their Europa League hopes alive, they will need discipline, resilience, and moments of quality. With Martin O’Neill once again leading them out, there is a growing feeling that the club has rediscovered the qualities required for nights like this — and that, in itself, has made Bologna sit up and take notice.

Martin O’Neill on spying mission for Celtic while Franko Kovacevic’s January future remains uncertain

Martin O’Neill was in attendance at Fir Park as Motherwell secured their place in the next round of the Scottish Cup, sparking fresh speculation over Celtic’s transfer plans.

The Celtic manager, accompanied by assistant Mark Fotheringham, watched from the stands as Tawanda Maswanhise’s decisive strike earned the Steelmen a 1–0 victory over Ross County and sealed their spot in the last-16 draw. O’Neill’s presence in North Lanarkshire did not go unnoticed and immediately raised questions about whether the Hoops boss was running the rule over potential transfer targets.

O’Neill has previously spoken with admiration about Motherwell under Jens Berthel Askou, praising their attacking approach and commitment to playing on the front foot. With Celtic preparing for a pivotal period in their title challenge, the manager is eager to strengthen his squad before next weekend’s crucial league clash away to Hearts at Tynecastle.

The Irishman has been clear in recent days that he expects reinforcements to arrive before that must-win encounter against the league leaders. As a result, his appearance at Fir Park is likely to fuel talk that Celtic could be considering a move for one of Motherwell’s standout performers.

Once again, Maswanhise was the man who made the difference. The Zimbabwe international struck in the second half to ensure Motherwell avoided an upset against County, who are currently struggling near the bottom of the Championship. His match-winning contribution only added to an already impressive campaign.

Maswanhise has been one of the SPFL’s most eye-catching performers this season, registering 15 goals in 27 appearances across all competitions. His pace, versatility, and eye for goal have made him a key figure for Motherwell and a player who has attracted attention from elsewhere. With Celtic actively searching for additional attacking options, the 23-year-old forward may well have caught O’Neill’s eye during the cup tie.

The Celtic boss has openly stated that he wants to bring in at least two new strikers before the transfer window shuts on February 2. That urgency reflects both the demands of the title race and the need to add depth and quality to the squad for the challenges ahead.

While domestic options are being monitored, Celtic are also looking beyond Scotland. One player on their radar is Croatian forward Franko Kovačević, who has been in prolific form for NK Celje. The 24-year-old has scored an astonishing 25 goals in just 28 appearances this season, making him one of the most lethal attackers in the Slovenian PrvaLiga.

Despite the strong interest, it is understood that Celtic have yet to submit a formal offer to Celje. Kovačević is thought to be valued at around £4.3 million, and while he is among the options being considered, no final decision has been made. Parkhead chiefs are believed to be weighing up several attacking targets as they assess the best way to reinforce O’Neill’s squad.

Not all potential names are being pursued, however. O’Neill has already ruled out a move for West Ham striker Callum Wilson, making it clear that the experienced forward’s wage demands would be far beyond what Celtic are prepared to pay.

As things stand, O’Neill’s visit to Fir Park has only added intrigue to an already busy transfer window for Celtic. Whether it proves to be a simple scouting mission or the first step toward a concrete move remains to be seen, but with the title race intensifying, the Hoops boss is leaving no stone unturned in his search for goals.

Celtic enter talks for Leeds striker, but Rangers link could complicate deal as Middlesbrough monitors situation.

Celtic are reportedly in discussions with Leeds United over a potential deal for striker Joel Piroe, though the situation is complicated by the Premier League side’s links to Rangers through shared ownership. The Hoops are keen to strengthen their attacking options under Martin O’Neill, who recently returned as manager, as they look to close the gap on league leaders Hearts in the Scottish Premiership title race. Currently sitting second, Celtic trail Hearts by six points and view the acquisition of a forward as a key step in their push to regain the top spot.

Leeds United’s 26-year-old Piroe has made only 10 appearances in the Premier League this season, prompting speculation about a move away from Elland Road. Celtic have reportedly entered negotiations with Leeds to secure a loan deal for the Dutch forward during the January window, offering to meet his wage expectations. However, Leeds appear to prefer a permanent transfer in order to maintain compliance with the division’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). While a loan could be feasible, the club’s close ties with Rangers through 49ers Enterprises could complicate any deal with the Scottish champions.

Interest from Middlesbrough adds an extra layer of complexity to Piroe’s future. The Championship side, currently second in the table and challenging for automatic promotion, are monitoring the situation closely. Middlesbrough could have an advantage if Leeds’ affiliation with Rangers proves problematic for Celtic, as Boro would not face the same internal complications in negotiating a transfer. With two points separating them from third-place Ipswich Town, manager Kim Hellberg’s squad is keen to reinforce their attacking options, making Piroe a highly attractive prospect.

From a player’s perspective, Piroe remains in control of his future. Leeds are not forcing the striker out, and he has yet to indicate any desire to leave. Under contract until the summer of 2027, Piroe retains significant transfer value, meaning Leeds could look to monetize the situation if a move is to occur this month. Celtic’s interest, while genuine, could be hampered by the ownership dynamics with Rangers, which may ultimately make Middlesbrough the more straightforward option if a January exit materializes.

The circumstances also reflect Celtic’s broader challenge in securing top-level reinforcements mid-season. O’Neill has been clear about the need to bring in a striker capable of complementing the squad’s current options. While the Hoops have depth, the addition of a forward with Premier League experience like Piroe would provide a significant boost, particularly as Celtic seek to maintain pressure on Hearts and strengthen their position in domestic competition.

On the other hand, Middlesbrough are eyeing the striker for entirely pragmatic reasons. The Championship club is in the thick of the promotion battle and any acquisition of a player like Piroe could have an immediate impact. Leeds’ reluctance to negotiate a loan makes Boro a potentially more viable destination, particularly if Celtic cannot overcome the ownership-related hurdles. Hellberg’s team has the added advantage of being ready to integrate the forward into their campaign without any external complications, which could influence Piroe’s decision if he wants to maximize playing time this season.

Overall, the situation highlights a balancing act between player ambition, club strategy, and ownership interests. Celtic are keen to pursue the Dutch forward and appear willing to meet his financial demands, but Leeds’ preference for a permanent transfer, coupled with the Rangers connection, could hinder negotiations. Middlesbrough, meanwhile, are monitoring the developments carefully and could present a smoother path to first-team football for Piroe.

In the meantime, the player remains in control. With a contract extending through 2027 and a limited role in Leeds’ current campaign, Piroe has the opportunity to consider his options carefully. The January window is a critical period for both Celtic and Middlesbrough, and the next moves by all parties will likely determine where the striker will play for the remainder of the season. If Celtic can navigate the ownership-related challenges and secure the deal, they would gain a proven forward to boost their attacking line. If not, Middlesbrough could capitalize, strengthening their push for promotion with a player of notable Premier League experience.

As the window progresses, all eyes will remain on Piroe, Leeds, Celtic, and Middlesbrough, with the forward’s future remaining one of the more intriguing transfer sagas of the January period.

Martin O’Neill responds to Callum Wilson links with Celtic

Speculation linking Callum Wilson with a potential move to Celtic has been played down by Martin O’Neill, who claims the reports came as a surprise to him.

The West Ham United striker has been widely tipped to be on the lookout for a new club during the current transfer window, with his future at the London Stadium appearing uncertain. Recent reports suggested that Celtic had made an approach to West Ham to explore the possibility of bringing the experienced forward to Glasgow, but O’Neill insists he has no concrete knowledge of any such discussions.

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Wilson, a former England international, has struggled for regular minutes this season and, at 33, is understood to be keen on securing more consistent game time. That situation has naturally fuelled rumours about a possible move away from West Ham, with Celtic among the clubs mentioned as potential suitors as they search for attacking reinforcements.

However, speaking to the media, O’Neill distanced himself from the reports and made it clear that Wilson’s name had not been part of his immediate thinking. Asked directly about the striker, the interim Celtic boss admitted the speculation was new to him.

“I can’t really tell you anything,” O’Neill said. “To be honest, it was actually news to me. We are looking for goals, of course, but that’s hardly unique to Celtic. Every team is searching for reliable goal scorers.”

While he refused to comment on Wilson specifically, O’Neill did stress that Celtic are actively working behind the scenes to strengthen their squad. He suggested that progress is being made, even if he could not offer supporters concrete names or details at this stage.

“I can’t go into specifics,” he added. “But we are making progress. I do think we’re getting closer. We’re definitely nearer now than we were.”

O’Neill also acknowledged the challenges that come with being questioned publicly about transfers while negotiations are ongoing. He admitted that while he enjoys speaking to the media, transfer-related questions can be uncomfortable due to the sensitivity of the process and the timing involved.

“I enjoy the conversations, I really do,” he said. “But I dread the transfer questions because these things don’t usually get resolved straight away. Often it’s not until later in the window, sometimes even the second or third of February.”

Despite that, the veteran manager sounded cautiously optimistic that Celtic supporters would soon see movement in the market. He indicated that the club is hopeful of bringing new players in sooner rather than later, potentially within the next week.

“I would be hoping that by some stage next week we would have people through the door,” O’Neill said, offering reassurance to fans growing impatient for signings.

Addressing Wilson’s situation more generally, O’Neill was quick to praise the striker’s quality, even while distancing Celtic from any firm interest. He described Wilson as a “very fine player” but suggested he had assumed the forward was bound for another destination.

“I hadn’t thought about that move at all,” he said. “Not because he’s not a very good player – he is – but I genuinely thought he was heading elsewhere.”

That assumption may be supported by further reports from the Scottish Sun, which claim that Wilson could be set for a move outside the UK altogether. According to the report, Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab are leading the race to sign the striker and are prepared to offer him a deal that would take him to the Middle East.

If that proves accurate, it would effectively rule out a move to Celtic and underline the competitive nature of the market for experienced forwards. Clubs from wealthier leagues and regions are often able to offer financial packages that Scottish sides struggle to match, particularly for players with Premier League pedigree.

For Celtic, the situation highlights the complexity of their search for attacking options. While the club are clearly prioritising the addition of a striker, they must balance experience, cost, availability, and long-term planning. O’Neill’s comments suggest that, while names like Wilson may be circulating in the media, Celtic’s actual targets may lie elsewhere.

As the transfer window moves into a decisive phase, clarity is expected to arrive quickly. Whether or not Wilson’s future is resolved in the coming days, Celtic fans will be watching closely for tangible progress, hopeful that the club’s pursuit of “elusive goal scorers” finally results in new arrivals before the window closes.