MARTIN O’NEILL has been given the full backing of Celtic chief executive Michael Nicholson to carry on as Celtic manager.
Speculation has been rife since the 74-year-old gaffer admitted he would “reflect” on his position after the champions endured three consecutive defeats.
A 3-1 loss in the Europa League opener to Ferencvaros at Parkhead on Thursday was book-ended by defeats to Derek McInnes’ Ibrox side in the Premier Sports League Cup and Premiership.
An obviously disappointed O’Neill made his stark statement after the Hoops 1-0 loss in the east end of Glasgow on Sunday, but Nicholason made it abundantly clear that the club’s immediate aim was to “come together and support Martin”.
The CEO said: “We owe a debt of gratitude to Martin O’Neill and his management team, who stepped up for Celtic, twice, and who guided the team to success.
CARRY ON, BOSS…Martin O’Neill has been backed by Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson.
“We were therefore delighted that Martin agreed to lead the Club again this season and we have worked with Martin and his team over the summer transfer window to invest in the squad.
“Having started well in the Premiership this season, we experienced disappointment in the UEFA Champions League play-off. Reaching the league phase of the Champions League is an objective for us all, and we are sorry not to have achieved it.”
Nicholson, speaking in a report in The Scotsman, added: “On top of that, the losses in the last week have been painful for us all.
“We will now come together and support Martin and the players, as we focus our efforts on achieving success domestically and in the Europa League.”
Celtic, bidding for a sixth successive title, hold a two-point lead over Rangers and Hearts at the Premiership pinnacle after seven games.
They are back in action against Motherwell at Fir Park on Sunday October 11.
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