Martin O'Neill spends improbable Celtic anniversary in familiar territory as veteran still fighting to keep club out of the fire

O'Neill marks one year since returning to Celtic, reflecting on an unexpected journey that has delivered two major trophies across two separate spells.

Martin O'Neill has completed a full year since Dermot Desmond's call asking him to manage Celtic for "two weeks or two months" — a temporary arrangement that has stretched into two separate stints and delivered two major trophies. Now 74, O'Neill remains in the dugout as Celtic prepare for a league visit from Dundee United, having successfully opened a four-point gap over Rangers despite a turbulent European campaign.

O'Neill reflected on the improbability of his extended tenure, describing it as one of the greatest years of his life given the circumstances and results achieved. He acknowledged the difference between managing now and during his first spell at the turn of the century, noting that while social media creates more noise, his age and experience allow him to manage the pressure better. The veteran manager said he has deliberately cut out the noise of online commentary, focusing instead on the football itself.