Johnny Kenny on Martin O’Neill, Celtic progress and his debut for Ireland

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The Celtic Star

·22 November 2025

Johnny Kenny on Martin O’Neill, Celtic progress and his debut for Ireland

Johnny Kenny has given his verdict on Martin O’Neill remaining in charge of Celtic and also expressed his delight at making his international debut for Republic of Ireland…

Johnny Kenny celebrates. Celtic v theRangers. Premier Sports Cup, semi final at Hampden. 2 November 2025. Photo AJ (The Celtic Star)

More than three weeks after Brendan Rodgers’ unexpected resignation, the club still hasn’t appointed a permanent replacement, instead confirming earlier this week that the 73-year-old will continue working with Shaun Maloney for the time being.

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For Kenny, who has been in the starting lineup for every match since O’Neill returned, this development is positive news, even with the continued speculation circulating around Wilfried Nancy.

Speaking at yesterday’s media conference via Celtic’s YouTube channel ahead of tonight’s encounter against St Mirren in Paisley, Kenny said: “Obviously, we didn’t know what was going to happen over the break, but we’re still delighted to have Martin and Shaun in charge.”

“They’ve been very good, the results have been very good, so we look forward to working under them for however long they’re here for.”

Benjamin Nygren and Johnny Kenny celebrate. Celtic v Falkirk. 29 October 2025. Scottish Premiership, photo Kenny Ramsay IMAGO

For the 22-year-old forward, last week was a major achievement in his young career, as he made his first appearance on the international stage for his country.

Having come close to finding the net during the Republic of Ireland’s dramatic 3–2 World Cup qualifying victory over Hungary – which secured a playoff in March – Kenny spoke openly about how proud he was to play in such an important match for his nation.

“It was a surreal experience,” he said. “Obviously, growing up, you want to play for your country, and it was great to play in such a high-magnitude game. It was two massive results for the nation.”

“We were probably written off before, and to go into it and score, with the last kick of the ball, is special. We spoke about it all week, bringing the nation together, and I think we’ve done that. Obviously, you’ve seen with Scotland, the whole nation is together now, and we hopefully can do that in March.”

“I was hoping it’d hit the net. I probably hit it too well. The ones you kind of scuff are the ones that go in, but it was a great save, and thankfully, Troy [Parrott] was there to save the day again.”

Conor Spence

Last orders for Celtic in the Eighties by David Potter

Celtic in the Eighties and Willie Fernie – Putting on the Style both by David Potter. Photo The Celtic Star

Last remaining copies of Celtic in the Eighties – get your copy now before it’s too late! Here’s what you get…

David Potter’s beautifully produced hardback book, the Celtic Historian final work before his passing. Your copy will also be personally signed by Celtic legend Danny McGrain!
You’ll also receive a complimentary copy of another brilliant David Potter book – Willie Fernie – Putting on the Style.

Order Celtic in the Eighties from Celtic Star Books and we’ll automatically add Putting on the Style. Please note postage will only be charged on one book so there is no cost to you at all for the Willie Fernie biography.

These two books combined will make a brilliant Christmas present!

Danny McGrain signing copies of Celtic in the Eighties by David Potter. Photo: Celtic Star Books

Celtic in the Eighties by David Potter. Out now on Celtic Star Books. Order at celticstarbooks.com

Willie Fernie – Putting on the Style. Available at celticstarbooks.com