Neil Warnock has backed Martin O’Neill to continue as Celtic manager despite the uncertainty surrounding his future following last weekend’s defeat to Rangers.
O’Neill admitted he would reflect on his position after Celtic suffered a third consecutive defeat and even suggested it “might be time to wrap it up”.
Chief executive Michael Nicholson has since publicly backed the Celtic boss, and Warnock believes O’Neill’s emotional post-match comments came in the immediate aftermath of one of the most difficult periods of his managerial career.
The veteran manager has never hidden his Rangers allegiance, making his support for O’Neill particularly notable.
Speaking to the Sunday Mail, Warnock said: “Individuals who’ve had longevity in football management possess a special strength of character and that’s why I know Martin O’Neill will be alright today, tomorrow and for a while yet as Celtic boss.
“Martin’s taken a few bumps, to be four goals ahead against LASK in Europe and still go out of the Champions League was as sore as it gets and I felt sorry for him.
“I didn’t feel so sorry for him for losing back-to-back Rangers games, as most people know where my allegiances lie.”
Warnock also watched O’Neill’s press conference following the 1-0 defeat at Celtic Park and believes the Hoops boss was speaking from emotion.
“He spoke in the moment and from the heart, I know how he must have felt as I’d have been the same.
“He’s just had one of the worst weeks he’s ever had. It’s hard to get over that.”
Warnock continued: “I want Martin to do what Martin wants to do. If he wants to stay then he should stay.
“His reputation will never be tarnished whatever happens. His record and commitment to Celtic has been fantastic so I think he’ll want to stay.
“That fire to achieve more success still burns within him, he’s just that type.”
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