Paul Lambert made several interesting observations about Celtic’s current situation, but one comment stood above the rest.
The former Hoops midfielder believes Martin O’Neill can “sort everything out” as Celtic prepare for a pivotal summer.
Speaking on Off The Ball, Lambert explained exactly why he has so much faith in Celtic’s manager. Just days after O’Neill’s permanent appointment, it is difficult to ignore the logic behind his argument.
What would be your one message to Martin O’Neill about Celtic’s upcoming transfer window?
Paul Lambert believes Martin O’Neill is exactly what Celtic need
Lambert said: “I think it’s a no-brainer because I think the way the club is at the minute is a little bit uncertain to long-term vision, which I get, which I totally get, but I’ll tell you right now, if Celtic bring in a novice and it never went right after about two or three games, the fans would go ballistic.
“So, the gaffer, I think, is giving them a foothold in it to get them stabilised again, because I think they need it, because I think the squad is nowhere near it to compete at European level, and even domestically, when they’re really struggling a bit, but he knows how to win football matches.”
Lambert’s point is straightforward. Celtic is not a club where managers are given unlimited time to learn on the job. Experience matters, particularly during periods of uncertainty.
Why Paul Lambert thinks Martin O’Neill can sort Celtic out
Lambert continued: “I think Celtic is not a developing club.
“You don’t get time there. You’re lucky if you get two games before they want. You look at Wilfred Nancy, if you don’t perform, you’re out, and that’s the nature of the beast up there.”
O’Neill’s appointment is evidence that Celtic prioritised certainty during a period of instability. His experience helped guide the club to a Premiership title and Scottish Cup success.
Paul Lambert sees Celtic problems that still need fixing
Despite that domestic success, Lambert also highlighted concerns that many supporters still share.
His view that the squad is not yet equipped to compete consistently at European level aligns with ongoing discussions about depth, recruitment and quality ahead of the new campaign.
Lambert concluded: “It’s not a developing club, it’s a winning club, and if you don’t do it, you’re in big, big trouble. But the manager will get in there and he’ll, I’m pretty sure he’ll sort everything out.”
Whether supporters agree with every part of Lambert’s assessment is beside the point. What matters is that he believes O’Neill has both the experience and authority to tackle Celtic’s biggest issues. The coming months will show whether that confidence is justified.
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