Martin O’Neill has acknowledged ongoing interest from West Ham in Arne Engels, while confirming that Everton has initiated contact regarding Celtic’s right-back, Alistair Johnston. Despite these developments, Celtic remains intent on retaining both players, aware that finding adequate replacements would be a significant challenge.
Everton manager David Moyes has reportedly informed O’Neill to anticipate formal negotiations concerning Johnston in the near future. Meanwhile, Celtic are considering tactical adjustments ahead of their upcoming match against Dundee, with O’Neill potentially shifting from their usual 4-3-3 formation to a setup featuring a defensive partnership between Kasper Høgh and Camilo Durán.
Transfer Talks and Tactical Tinkering
Commentating on the situation, former Celtic striker Chris Sutton expressed surprise at the prospect of Engels moving to West Ham, describing such a transfer as unusual. Sutton also emphasized the importance of holding onto Johnston at least until the completion of the Champions League play-off, underlining the Scottish club’s stakes in forthcoming European fixtures.
Backing Celtic’s record signing, Paul Hartley praised Høgh’s potential impact, highlighting his Champions League experience and suggesting the £11 million investment could prove a bargain. Hartley went as far as to predict Høgh as a potential top scorer in the Premiership, reflecting high expectations for the Danish forward.
Reflecting on club history, Celtic’s 1951 St Mungo Cup triumph was recalled, spotlighting dramatic comebacks against Clyde and Aberdeen and Jimmy Walsh’s decisive goal in the 3-2 final at Hampden Park.
In other squad news, former Celtic striker Kelechi Iheanacho publicly thanked the club following his transfer to Bursaspor. O’Neill clarified that Iheanacho’s contract option had expired, and the player chose to pursue a new opportunity.
Looking ahead to the fixture against Dundee, O’Neill issued a warning to fans and players alike, recalling how Dundee posed significant challenges last season and narrowly eliminated Celtic from the Scottish Cup. The upcoming encounter promises to be another stern test for the reigning champions.