Martin O’Neill pinpoints one Celtic transfer ingredient desperately needed as former boss reveals Champions League fears
The defeat to Kilmarnock in the Viaplay Cup has sparked concerns for the former Parkhead boss.
Concerned Martin O'Neill admits that after watching Celtic's defeat to Kilmarnock the Scottish champions have not brought in enough "physicality" this summer.
Derek McInnes' side sent the Viaplay Cup holders crashing out of the competition at Rugby Park as the Irishman's unbeaten cup record as Hoops boss came to a shock end in Ayrshire - with supporters hopes of following up the Treble achieved under Ange Postecoglou last term brought to an end just three games into Celtic's campaign. It was only the eighth time in almost 60 years that Celtic have fallen at their first hurdle in a domestic cup competition and has sparked concerns among fans.
And former Hoops boss O'Neill conceded he had his own concerns for the side with the Champions League group stage rapidly approaching - as he charged the Hoops with the task of fixing the issue before the end of the month. Speaking to talkSPORT host Jim White about the defeat to Killie: "It's always possible but Celtic's record in recent seasons has been so good that it is a surprise and a massive disappointment to go out against Kilmarnock.
"I was watching the game and believe it or not I think Celtic lack physicality. They are a fine bunch of nice footballers at this minute but really do lack physicality. That would be a concern for me going into the Champions League in the next couple of weeks.
"They will be coming up against sides that are more physical and certainly will be stronger looking. Celtic will be judged more by how they perform in the Champions League this season. From my viewpoint they may rectify that over the next couple of weeks, but that would be a concern."
White then moved on to talking about Brendan Rodgers confession that a lot of "quality" had left Celtic Park this summer and he hoped to replaced it before the window closes. Simon Jordan appeared unmoved, stating: "He is not backward about getting them in early, is he? With that in mind I'm not surprised he has said that.
"He will know what he has taken on and he will know what he needs. Up until that point Celtic have done okay and had a couple of results in the league. I think Celtic will win the league this season because I think Rangers are some way off but if they are judged by the Champions League I think we will have a similar result as we did last year."