Q: How is Kelechi Iheanacho? I understand he was training today?
Martin O’Neill: “He trained today, yes, I think that might be his second day. He didn’t travel with us, but he’s been doing some training. And he did fine today, I’m glad to see him back, that helps us if that’s the case. It might be a bit of a stretch to start him in a game at the moment, but at least he’s going to be available.”
Kelechi Iheanacho of Celtic celebrates scoring during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Motherwell at Celtic Park, on 5th October 2025 Photo by Mark Runnacles IMAGO /Shutterstock
Q: How do you view the game on Sunday in terms of the title race? Many people say it could be pivotal for your hopes of retaining the title…
Martin O’Neill: “It’s going to be very big, no question about it. If we get beat, it’s a long way back for us. It is a bit of a trek at the minute. We would go out to try and win the game if we can. It’s not the end of the road but nine points would be a lot to claw back with the games left.”
Q: It could be a nine point deficit if you lose. Would you be trying to avoid defeat rather than go for the win?
Martin O’Neill: “I don’t think that’s in our nature. If you look at last night, the way we started the game, we closed the players down. We scored a goal from closing players down. So we went to take the game to Bologna. What’s the point in sitting back? Obviously as the game goes on, we get a man sent off. The second half, we had to retreat. They drove us back, as you would expect. Very, very fine side. It was all hands to the pump. But that’s the way the game goes. But for us, we will be as positive as we possibly can. And we’ll try and win. And if we can’t win it, we’ll try and save it.”
Callum McGregor shakes hands with Derek McInnes after the match at Tynecastle. Hearts v Celtic, 26 October 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)
Q: In terms of Tomas, you mentioned you didn’t want to put too much pressure on him. But is there a confidence in you that should he be called upon to start or make an impact on Sunday that he can?
Martin O’Neill: “I think that’s the case. That’s why we’ve taken him on. Yes, I think he naturally wants to do well. And we want him to do well, very selfishly for ourselves, but obviously for him. I think he’s capable of doing it. It’s on the field, it counts.
