O'Neill Remains at Celtic as Nancy Deal Advances

Martin O'Neill says there is a good chance he will still be in charge when Celtic host Dundee on Wednesday. The 73-year-old Northern Irish manager has sparked a quick revival as the team pursues trophies and strong European showings.

After beating Hibernian, Celtic have six wins from seven under his care. The mood is up, players look energized, and supporters are singing his name.

O'Neill expects there to be one more big test before stepping back, but the question remains whether he will stay longer than that. What has changed in his 35 days in charge and why is the Nancy deal delayed? Could he stay on a little longer?

• Impressive run of form as Celtic close the gap at the top
• Now chasing a League Cup final and solid European results in a short spell

Impact so far

The figures are striking. In seven matches Celtic have won six, scored 18 and conceded six. Only two of those games were at home, with wins over Falkirk and Kilmarnock showing the attacking spark returning. There was a League Cup semi final against Rangers at Hampden and two challenging European trips, including a landmark win at Feyenoord. They also earned valuable away wins at St Mirren and Hibernian.

O'Neill has a flawless domestic record in his five matches in interim charge and will be confident of another win when Dundee visit. Hearts led the table when he took charge but Celtic have cut the gap to two points, with Celtic having played one more game.

What has changed

Things had stalled under Brendan Rodgers. Celtic were short on goals and ideas before O'Neill returned, but his presence has sparked a dramatic turnaround. New and fringe players have earned chances, while established stars have regained form, notably Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate.

After the win over Hibernian, O'Neill spoke about how the team has responded and how praise and constructive criticism can help players grow.

Why Nancy is delayed

O'Neill confirmed Wilfried Nancy is the preferred choice, but the deal is slowed by paperwork and work permits for him and his staff. Until those contracts are signed, O'Neill will continue to lead the side. The earliest moment for Nancy would be when Hearts visit next weekend.

O'Neill added that he thought this might be his last game in charge for now, but the delays mean he will stay through Wednesday at least.

Former Scotland international James McFadden says Celtic are in good hands with O'Neill, noting that he has surpassed expectations by stabilising the club and lifting performances. He adds the team now plays with unity and purpose, and the fans respond to his leadership.

Could O'Neill stay longer

Short term there is a chance, but long term the plan is for a new manager to take over. Some supporters prefer keeping O'Neill through the season to chase both cups and the league, while others think the new boss needs time to imprint his own style in January.

O'Neill even teased the possibility of staying on in an advisory role, but he doubts that path will happen. If the club wants him, he says they know how to contact him.

Fans responses

• Stuart: He would love to see him stay through the season so Celtic can go for a cup and league double.
• Alan: O'Neill has shown real leadership and should stay at least until the season ends.
• Francis: The club needs time for a new coach to adapt, extending O'Neill helps this transition.
• Gerry: Keeping O'Neill for the rest of the season seems sensible.

Summary Celtic have steadied their campaign under O'Neill while the Nancy deal awaits final steps. A brief extension could bridge the gap to Nancy taking charge and maintain momentum for a cup run and league battle. The next few days will determine whether a longer stay is possible.

Key insight: The immediate future depends on the Nancy paperwork, making a short continuation under O'Neill a practical bridge rather than a long term plan. BBC Sport