Martin O'Neill Recovering After Small Procedure at Celtic

Martin O'Neill remains in hospital after what Celtic described as “a small procedure”, with the club expecting their manager to be discharged within the next 48 hours.

The 74-year-old, who was confirmed as permanent boss in the summer after delivering a Premiership and Scottish Cup double last season, is understood to be recovering well. Celtic did not disclose medical details, but moved to calm speculation around his absence.

The Irishman was on the touchline as recently as Monday night, directing Celtic’s narrow 1-0 win over Dundee at Parkhead in the opening game of their title defence. His condition emerged only after rumours began to circulate about his wellbeing.

With a trip to Kilmarnock looming on Sunday, live on Sky Sports, attention will inevitably turn to whether O’Neill is in the dugout at Rugby Park or forced to watch from a distance. For now, Celtic’s message is simple: recovery first.

In a statement, the club said: “In response to speculation, we can confirm that Martin O'Neill has undergone a small procedure in hospital.

“We would envisage Martin being released from hospital in the next day or two and on behalf of Martin, we would like to thank supporters for their kind wishes.

“We would ask that the privacy of Martin and his family is respected.”

It is a rare pause for a manager who has spent the past year in relentless motion, driving Celtic back to domestic dominance. The club, and a support that has already taken him back to heart, now wait for the familiar figure to re-emerge on the touchline as the season gathers pace.