Chris Sutton has weighed in on the latest Celtic debate with a typically sharp response on social media.
The former Hoops striker does not usually hold back when he sees a football argument he disagrees with, and his latest post suggested he was more than a little amused by some of the Celtic discussion surrounding Martin O’Neill.
Sutton’s response came after growing discussion over whether O’Neill should remain in charge beyond the end of the season
Without naming names, Sutton delivered a sarcastic remark that quickly caught the attention of supporters and reignited a conversation that has been gathering pace in recent days.
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Chris Sutton’s O’Neill message says plenty for Celtic fans
There was no lengthy explanation from Sutton. There did not need to be. The Celtic hero was clearly taking aim at those dismissing O’Neill because of his age
His comment, “I suppose nobody really knows whether Martin is up to the job at Celtic…”, was loaded with sarcasm and aimed squarely at those questioning O’Neill’s credentials.
Whether supporters agree or disagree on what role O’Neill should have at Celtic is one thing. Sutton’s point seemed to focus on something else entirely.
For many fans, the idea that some question O’Neill’s ability to continue at Celtic in any capacity feels like a strange argument to make given everything he achieved during his time at Parkhead.
Martin O’Neill’s Celtic legacy speaks for itself
Sutton’s tweet cuts to the heart of the current debate.
Debate is part of football and differing opinions are healthy. However, there is a difference between discussing whether a particular role is the right fit and suggesting someone lacks the pedigree for it simply because of their age.
Now, I have been clear on my stance on O’Neill getting the Celtic job permanently. His ability to do it is not in question.
The real issue is whether Celtic’s board know how to appoint a manager capable of taking the club forward, rather than repeatedly turning back to familiar names when problems arise.
O’Neill remains one of the most influential figures of Celtic’s modern era. His place in the club’s history was secured long ago and that is what Sutton appeared to be highlighting.
The discussion around O’Neill is unlikely to disappear any time soon, but Sutton’s sarcastic intervention served as a reminder that some reputations have been earned over decades, not built on recent opinion.
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