I'll spare my captain the Celtic riot act as we're on the same page about what's required

O'Neill backs McGregor's criticism of Celtic's disjointed style, saying they lack control and balance as new signings settle in.

Martin O'Neill has dismissed any suggestion he needs to discipline captain Callum McGregor over midweek comments comparing Celtic's play to basketball, revealing the manager is in complete agreement with his skipper's assessment.

McGregor had criticized the Hoops' approach following the Dundee United draw, describing it as chaotic and lacking control. Some fans interpreted this as another senior player criticizing the manager, following similar comments from Cameron Carter-Vickers weeks earlier.

But O'Neill insists they are aligned. "I didn't see or hear a word what Callum was saying, honestly, but I would be agreeing with him," the manager said. He acknowledged Celtic don't yet have the right balance, pointing to the staggered preseason after the World Cup and new signings arriving at different times. O'Neill emphasized his priority is getting flair players performing, noting they need to win matches first and foremost, though they will have defensive duties too. He also defended recent signing Hassan, dismissing reports of a £9m fee and backing the Egyptian winger to deliver.