Sebastian Tounekti lifts the lid on what Martin O’Neill has been like behind the scenes

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Sebastian Tounekti has had a very busy start to his life at Celtic.

After flourishing in his first two appearances, scoring in the second of those against Partick Thistle, the Tunisia international has had to deal with a lot.

The manager who signed him, Brendan Rodgers, resigned and was replaced by Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney.

Tounekti scored in the 4-0 win against Falkirk – O’Neill’s first in charge – and has credited the new management duo for helping him settle into the club.

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How Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney have helped Sebastian Tounekti

Working under a Celtic legend like O’Neill is something many dream of, and the coaching expertise of Maloney will only make Tounekti better.

During an interview with the Scotsman, the left winger stated that morale in the dressing room was good and the new regime have helped to improve the environment.

He said: “From the first day, he gave us motivation and the courage to believe we are a great team with great players. He has been motivating us a lot. He’s been really great.

“You can see the history he has. He knows so much about the game. He speaks with individual players so well. We have spoken a little bit but the main thing is speaking with the group and get us together on how we want to play.

“I have also spoken a lot with Shaun Maloney as he played in my position. I got some great tips from both of them and I will learn and develop and bring it into my game.”

Sebastian Tounekti on settling in at Celtic

Moving from Hammarby was always going to be a difficult step to take for the 23-year-old.

There have been some games where the winger has failed to make an impact, but overall, he has been one of the better success stories from the summer transfer window.

Even though he admitted that things have been difficult after the departure of Rodgers, he is still enjoying the challenge.

“It’s always difficult to come to a new club, especially a club like Celtic – so big,” Tounekti added.

“But it’s been positive as I’ve developed and I’m learning every day. Hopefully I’ll take more and more steps.”