O'Neill on key duo's fitness, Celtic strikers & 'big miss' Yang
Martin O'Neill has been speaking to the media before Celtic visit St Johnstone in the Premiership on Wednesday (20:00 BST). Striker Kasper Hogh has been back in training the past couple of days and fellow injury absentee Kieran Tierney returned to work with the squad this morning. Both are in contention for the game, with Hogh the likelier, while there are "a couple of other fitness issues for…
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill addressed the media prior to the team's match against St Johnstone. Striker Kasper Hogh and winger Kieran Tierney, both sidelined with injuries, are both hopeful to play in the upcoming game. Hogh is considered the more likely starter.
The club is optimistic about loan striker Shim Mheuka, who was denied a goal in their recent win over St Mirren due to an offside call. O'Neill expressed confidence in Mheuka's abilities, stating he is "definitely capable." Alongside Hogh, Mheuka, Camilo Duran, and Callum Osman, O'Neill believes Celtic has a stronger attacking lineup compared to last season.
Winger Yang Hyun-jun will be notably absent for the next four games due to his participation in the Asian Games. O'Neill emphasized his absence as a significant loss for the team, praising his exceptional performance on and off the ball.
Looking ahead, O'Neill downplayed the significance of the upcoming match against Rangers in the League Cup quarter-finals, prioritizing Wednesday's game against St Johnstone. The loan signing of Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone added a new dimension to the team, providing competition for Viljami Sinisalo. O'Neill commended Johnstone's determination and remarked that he will eventually earn a starting position.
O'Neill also expressed satisfaction with St Johnstone's performance, describing them as "really talented" and praising their commitment to playing attractive football. He drew a parallel between St Johnstone and Craig McLeish's team at St Mirren.
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- Yang will be a huge miss for Celtic over next few weeks sports.yahoo.com
- How much will Celtic miss Asian Games-bound Yang? bbc.co.uk
