Celtic have confirmed that 74-year-old Martin O'Neill underwent a medical procedure and was successfully discharged from hospital on Thursday. The Irish manager, who signed a one-year contract with the club at the start of the season, was present on the bench for Monday’s match, which saw Celtic begin the new Scottish Premiership season with a 1-0 victory over Dundee. His absence from the bench in the coming days or for future matches will depend entirely on his own assessment and sense of well-being.
Shaun Maloney, the Celtic assistant coach who has taken charge in O'Neill's absence, visited his mentor last night to check on his condition. Maloney provided very positive updates, stating that O'Neill was in good spirits and felt significantly better than on Monday and Tuesday, when he was in hospital. According to the assistant coach, there is currently no set timeline for when O'Neill might return to the bench.
The next challenge for Celtic is Sunday’s away trip against Kilmarnock, where Neil McCann will sit on the bench. Maloney stressed that the final decision on whether O'Neill will be present on that trip or in the dressing room will rest solely with the 74-year-old. McCann, for his part, has expressed support and wished O'Neill a speedy recovery, respecting the veteran’s status and current health condition.
This moment comes in the context of O'Neill’s recent history with the club, where he previously led Celtic to a double in the Scottish league and cup following two stints as interim manager last season. His current absence from the sidelines has been temporarily covered by Maloney, who is managing the team while O'Neill recovers from his recent medical procedure.
