Sometimes, it just goes to show that pure man-management can lift the spirits of players.
Put aside Celtic’s tactics, many of these players, who looked a shadow of themselves before Brendan Rodgers left, are now playing with such authority.
Winning every domestic game under O’Neill is further proof of that, with Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels getting on the scoresheet during Celtic’s 2-1 win against Hibernian on Sunday.
Andy Walker mentioned Engels’ bravery for his headed goal against Hibs, and how there seems to be a change in mood from the player.
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Arne Engels is playing with anger for Celtic
Given that Engels is Celtic’s club-record signing, supporters have been on his case a lot more than others because of the price tag.
But under O’Neill, Walker told Go Radio that Engels ‘really looks the part’, and he thinks this ‘angry’ nature to his game is helping.
Hopefully, when Wilfried Nancy comes in, this will continue because the Celtic Park faithful have been patient with the player.
“I think the last couple of games, he has really looked the part,” said Walker. “He almost looks like an angry player. I don’t know whether that makes him more effective.
“But he has looked the part in the last few games.”
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Engels’ ratings under Martin O’Neill
Engels has started all but one match under O’Neill, and the game he didn’t start, he still managed to come off the bench, supply an assist and get on the scoresheet.
Either way, something has clicked during this spell, and long may it continue under Nancy.
- Engels’ WhoScored ratings under O’Neill
- Vs Falkirk: 7.14
- Vs Rangers: N/A
- Vs FC Midtjylland: 6.06
- Vs Kilmarnock: 7.46
- Vs St Mirren: 6.73
- Vs Feyenoord: 6.82
- Vs Hibernian: 7.43
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