Martin O’Neill made headlines after suggesting that “this is the time” for Hearts to break Celtic’s dominance coming just hours before being named interim manager of the Hoops.
The former Celtic boss was parachuted back into the dugout following Brendan Rodgers’ sudden resignation on Monday night. Rodgers’ exit came right after a damaging defeat to league leaders Hearts, who now sit eight points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
“After the weekend, [Hearts] have put themselves in a really decent position. I get back to the point. I think it’s early,” O’Neil praised Hearts’ momentum while speaking on TalkSport.
“Hearts have shown a great determination. Their record is great, at this minute. With Celtic not being as strong, as physically as strong, as maybe you would want them to be. It is possible.
“Celtic can actually lose games, whereas before, they looked invincible in matches. Rangers are no threat whatsoever. They are so far adrift it’s untrue.”
The veteran coach added: “But this is the moment. This is the time for Hearts. They have gone eight points clear. That is a decent enough lead, really. Their confidence has grown, and it will grow from that victory.”
Now, with O’Neill unexpectedly back at the helm, his pre-match remarks add a twist to an already dramatic title race as Celtic seek to bounce back under his temporary leadership.
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