Celtic are in a serious rut, reeling from three consecutive defeats, including two brutal losses to bitter rivals the Rangers. The pressure on manager Martin O’Neill is so intense some are even questioning his job, but former Celtic striker Gary Hooper is having none of it, firmly believing the club is still in good hands with O’Neill at the helm.
The Pressure Cooker Is On for O’Neill and Celtic
It’s been a rough stretch for the Hoops, no doubt about it. Three straight losses, two of them coming against the Rangers, and then a home defeat to Ferencvaros in the Europa League? That’s enough to turn up the heat on everyone at the club. The players and coaching staff are feeling it, but as always, the buck stops with the manager. Martin O’Neill, a truly iconic figure for Celtic, has faced heavy criticism in recent weeks. Talk is swirling, and some have even suggested he might be mulling over his future during this extended international break. It’s a tough spot for any boss, let alone one with his pedigree.
Hooper’s Unwavering Faith and the Much-Needed Reset
Despite all the noise, Englishman Gary Hooper, who absolutely lit it up for Celtic with 82 goals in 138 appearances, isn’t wavering in his belief. He’s convinced the veteran Irishman is the right man for the job. Asked if he thinks O’Neill can turn things around, Hooper’s answer was straight to the point: “Yes, of course. He’s been there, he’s done it.” Speaking to BBC Sport, Hooper emphasized that this international break probably hit at the perfect time after those two Glasgow Derby losses. He sees it as a “good reset for the team and everyone at the club,” a chance to “start again” once the break is over. That’s a strong vote of confidence from a player who knows what it takes to win at Celtic.
Hooper Still Got It: A Winner in Green and White
It’s not just talk either. Hooper recently laced up his boots for the Tennent’s Sixes competition at the Braehead Arena. At 38 years old, he turned back time, donning the hoops alongside other former Celts. And wouldn’t you know it, with the team coming back from two goals down twice in the final against the Rangers, who scored the winner? None other than Gary Hooper himself. He had an impressive tournament, showing he still has that deadly touch in front of goal. It just goes to show, some guys just get it, and Hooper definitely gets what Celtic is all about.
The international break is on, and Hooper thinks it’s the perfect time for a reset. Will O’Neill and Celtic use it to turn things around and prove Hooper right? All eyes will be on them when they hit the pitch again.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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