What a way to bow out for Celtic legend Martin O’Neill.
Everyone has seen and heard the talk around Wilfried Nancy; it’s a matter of time before the Columbus Crew boss is Celtic’s next permanent manager.
Therefore, the Celtic Park faithful knew that O’Neill’s final European game in charge was going to be against Feyenoord’s Robin van Persie.
Celtic beat Feyenoord 3-1 to secure their first away win in Europe since 2021, and O’Neill wasn’t just lauded by his own fans and media; van Persie also had some kind words to say about the 73-year-old.
The Europa League table after tonight’s results. Will we qualify?
Robin van Persie on Martin O’Neill after Celtic beat Feyenoord
It needs to be noted that van Persie is under pressure, with results in the league and Europe not going the way he would have wanted.
But after the full-time whistle, the legendary striker shared that he paid O’Neill a ‘compliment’ as they shook each other’s hands.
At the age of 73, O’Neill is Britain’s oldest active coach, and van Persie noted his age and how he likes the fact that he is ‘very experienced.’
Van Persie also spoke about Celtic’s manager situation, and how he isn’t sure as to whether O’Neill will stay on – O’Neill will take charge of his final game as Celtic manager at the weekend against Hibernian.
“We shook hands before and afterwards, and a compliment, then you move on,” said van Persie. “That’s always the case in football.
“You always run into each other over the years. What I do like is that he is a very experienced manager. He has seen and experienced everything. It’s nice to see that he is managing such a good team.
“But I don’t know if he will continue.”
‘Dominated possession? Well, we’re more than a decent side tonight. But listen. You can get carried away with things. Well, it was a brilliant, brilliant win.’ Let us know in the comments what you thought of the win.
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