Martin O’Neill’s slip of the tongue hints at extended Celtic stay | OneFootball

Martin O’Neill has hinted at an extended Celtic stay after his homecoming victory at Celtic Park. The Irishman watched on as Celtic put Falkirk to the sword, winning 4-0 and impressing with fast, forward passing.

Speaking to BBC Sport, O’Neill was asked about his compatriot Johnny Kenny, who was awarded the MOTM accolade after two first half strikes.

“I’m maybe hoping that, for whatever spell I’m here — long or short, and it’s more likely to be short — that maybe he (Johnny Kenny) can pick up something.

“I think, and I’m hoping, that it’s almost like a teacher’s role, and it sounds pathetic of me, but I think somewhere along the way the players can pick things up.”

O’Neill was pressed on the comment about whether he had opened the door to a long term deal but advised that it was merely a slip of the tongue.

“I did — it was a slip of the tongue.”

O’Neill will be pleased as Celtic cut the gap on Hearts, who drew away to St Mirren in Paisley. However, the Irishman will now focus on Sunday’s Premier Sports Cup Semi Final against Rangers. Danny Röhl’s side managed to scrape through against Hibs but the momentum is now with Celtic after an impressive showing at Celtic Park.

Celtic are in the market for a new permanent manager after Brendan Rodgers’ shock resignation. A number of managers have been linked with the vacancy but it remains to be seen who Celtic are keen on and whether they would be interested in taking the job on mid season.