Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has admitted the Scottish giants still need to strengthen their squad before the transfer window closes, with the pressure rising following their disappointing Champions League exit.
The Hoops were knocked out by LASK despite appearing firmly in control of the tie, leaving Celtic to compete in the Europa League for a second consecutive season.
For O’Neill, the setback has only underlined the need for more depth.
Speaking ahead of Celtic’s weekend clash with Falkirk, the experienced manager made it clear that recruitment remains a priority.
“We’re still trying to get some players in,” O’Neill said ahead of this weekend’s game with Falkirk.
“We’ll need a few to supplement the squad. I am hoping we can get some people in before the transfer deadline.
“We’re still hopeful.”
The Champions League elimination has created another test for Celtic, who must quickly reset their focus domestically.
O’Neill admitted the manner of the defeat to LASK was particularly painful, especially after Celtic had held the advantage for much of the contest.
The 74-year-old accepts responsibility for the collapse but believes his players now have to respond with the mentality traditionally expected at Celtic.
“I’ve known this from my time at this football club, you’re always one game away from a crisis, and that’s the case,” said the Celtic boss.
“It’s a major disappointment to get knocked out of the competition, particularly carrying a lead and certainly with 60 minutes to go and we are looking in real control of the game.”
They’ve had a couple of skirmishes but we have had the better chances in the game. And to let it slip in the manner in which we did is, that is my responsibility.
With frustration still fresh among Celtic supporters, O’Neill knows Saturday’s encounter with Falkirk could become uncomfortable if his team fails to start strongly.
The Celtic boss expects mistakes, pressure and moments of anxiety during the game.
His message to the players is simple: embrace them rather than allow the atmosphere to dictate their performance.
“And so we have to go and and really show, I know it’s an overused word, the character. We have to show a lot of character.
“And there’ll be moments in the game tomorrow, misplaced passes, allowing Falkirk in, shots at goal and maybe even going a goal behind in the game, where the crowd are going to get really restless. Absolutely, so we have to fight that.”
O’Neill also pointed to Celtic’s history as evidence that pressure at the club is nothing new.
The manager referenced former stars including Henrik Larsson, Neil Lennon and Paul Lambert, insisting that expectations have always been extremely high at Parkhead.
“But that’s been the case even in my days with (Henrik) Larsson and (Neil) Lennon, (Paul) Lambert, it was the case then, so that doesn’t change.
“And you know what? I wouldn’t expect it to. We can’t live in laurels for the rest of our time.”
The Champions League disappointment may have exposed weaknesses in O’Neill’s squad, but the manager has little time to dwell on them.
Celtic now face a crucial period both on and off the pitch.
Recruitment could determine how effectively they navigate the rest of the season, while performances against Falkirk and beyond will shape the mood around the club.
O’Neill wants additions, but he also wants a reaction.
For Celtic, the challenge is no longer simply replacing the disappointment of Champions League elimination.
It is proving that one painful night will not derail the season.
And with the transfer deadline approaching, the Hoops manager’s message to the Celtic hierarchy is impossible to miss: more players are needed, and they are needed soon.
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