Celtic and Martin O’Neill were given positive news regarding Kieran Tierney’s injury following their Scottish Premiership win over Falkirk.
The Bhoys were ruthless, sending Falkirk out in comfortable fashion and welcoming veteran manager O’Neill into the dugout in style. There was no denying that it was a perfect night at Celtic Park, considering Shock League leaders Hearts also dropped points with a 2-2 draw.
But off the pitch, things are still not looking up, with Celtic already suffering the first blow in their search for their next manager. According to Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph, the Hoops’ pursuit of Ange Postecoglou is unlikely to progress for now.
The Australian was recently sacked as manager of Nottingham Forest after just 39 days in charge and was linked with a return to Celtic until reports dispelled the rumors.
With their former manager sidelined for now, Parkhead chiefs will have to choose from a shortlist of names, which reportedly includes Craig Bellamy and Kieran McKenna.
McKenna would be a particularly interesting choice despite the Ipswich Town side’s recent struggles. He famously led the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League, but last season saw them immediately relegated. Now, a big move may finally occur.
In the meantime, it is O’Neill’s job to steady the ship and lead Celtic to the Scottish League Cup final, and Tierney’s return from injury will only help that aim.
Kieran Tierney set to return for Celtic vs Rangers
As O’Neill revealed, Tierney is expected to return for Celtic’s game against Rangers this weekend after missing the team’s 4-0 win over Falkirk. The left-back is no stranger to injury problems, but he won’t have to sit out games this time ahead of an important cup tie.
“He’s feeling better. I saw him before the game and he’s a lot better than before. He was scrunched up. He was stiff.”
The former Arsenal defender’s return should be an immediate boost for O’Neill. Of course, in situations like this and in Old Firm derbies, his experience alone proves crucial.
Despite how much Celtic have struggled this season, Tierney is enjoying some much-needed stability. The Scot has started seven of the 10 Scottish Premiership games as he looks to put his injury history behind him.
Described as “unique” by Rodgers in his first game against Celtic, Tierney is getting a second chance as an experienced member of O’Neill’s side. And that could start with this weekend’s game against Rangers in the Scottish League Cup.
