Martin O'Neill grasping at Celtic straws as Hotline declares time to rip it up has arrived

Celtic fans call for Martin O'Neill's departure after losses to Dundee United and Falkirk leave them vulnerable to Rangers, though some defend the manager's record.

Celtic's recent form has sparked debate among supporters about manager Martin O'Neill's future. The Hoops drew with Dundee United and lost to Falkirk while Rangers dropped points at Tynecastle but secured a Premier Sports Cup Final spot, potentially closing the gap to one point if Rangers win their game in hand.

Frustration is mounting among some Celtic fans. Stephen Mulhern argued that O'Neill was "grasping at straws" by comparing this season's decline to last year's comeback, noting the poor form happened under his watch. Denis Bruce echoed the sentiment, saying O'Neill's time appears up after the Falkirk defeat, despite last season's double success.

However, not all supporters agree. David Beattie defended O'Neill, criticizing fans for disrespecting a manager who achieved a near-impossible league title and Scottish Cup win just five months ago, and blamed the board for inadequate summer recruitment instead.

Elsewhere, Rangers booked their place in the Premier Sports Cup Final, though questions were raised about a controversial incident involving James Penrice. Hibernian's semi-final win prompted a reminder that they remain bottom of the league, while Kilmarnock drew with ten-man St Johnstone, with fans expressing concern about Neil McCann's management.