Celtic return tinged with sadness for Martin O'Neill as he lifts lid on his John Robertson regret

Celtic Return Tinged with Sadness for Martin O'Neill as He Lifts Lid on His John Robertson Regret

Martin O'Neill has returned to Celtic for a third spell as interim manager until the end of the season, replacing the sacked Wilfried Nancy just 33 days after stepping aside for the Frenchman. The 73-year-old's comeback comes amid a turbulent period for the club, which has slipped to third in the Scottish Premiership, six points behind leaders Hearts following back-to-back defeats under Nancy.[1][2][3]

O'Neill's first interim stint in October after Brendan Rodgers' departure was a success, winning seven of eight games and leaving Celtic level on points with Hearts and nine ahead of Rangers. However, Nancy's disastrous month in charge—losing six of eight—saw the team falter, prompting his dismissal.[3][4][6]

Despite the privilege of returning to Parkhead, O'Neill's joy is tempered by profound sadness over the recent death of his close friend and former assistant, John Robertson, who passed away last month. In an emotional interview, O'Neill lifted the lid on his deepest regret: not doing more to support Robertson during his final days battling illness. "John was like a brother to me. We shared triumphs at Celtic, Leicester, and beyond. I wish I'd visited more, spent those last moments with him. That regret haunts me now, especially returning here without him," O'Neill shared, voice cracking.[1]

Acknowledging the challenge ahead, O'Neill warned of a "big, big fight" to reclaim the title, with fewer games remaining and Hearts holding a psychological edge. He stressed the squad needs supplementing in January: "We must add players if possible—January is tough, but we're going all out, especially a prolific striker." Assisted by Shaun Maloney, Mark Fotheringham, and others, he aims to galvanize a "lost" group starting with Dundee United on Saturday.[2][3][4]

O'Neill ruled out staying beyond summer, citing energy concerns at 73: "I'll give everything now, but a long-term commitment? I don't know if I have the energy." Fans hail his loyalty, viewing success as elevating his legendary status. Yet, the shadow of Robertson's absence adds poignant depth to this "mad, crazy football world" return.[2][5][6]

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