Martin O'Neill has issued his thoughts on Celtic's transfer situation amid the Europa League draw. The Bhoys have some tricky games on the docket, with a trip to Benfica by far the most difficult, while there are also home games with Marseille and Besiktas which look more daunting.
The Bhoys might have been feeling confident a couple of weeks ago, but after a serious reality check in Austria that saw them concede five goals without reply, has fans feeling as though even the Europa League is going to be a big ask.
Celtic need more signings, with clear gaps in midfield, left-back and up top. Their failure to qualify for the Champions League could be an issue, but O'Neill knows more is needed, and he hopes the status difference of playing in Europa League compared to the Champions League won't be an issue.
"I’m hoping that’s not the case. We’re still trying to get some players in, " he said/. "We would need a few to supplement the squad for the European matches.
"Benfica’s performance against Hearts would show that they are probably a Champions League team. With Marseille, you could go on forever; the competition is still very strong."
He added: "I’ve known from the past that a number of teams in this competition could easily take their place in the Champions League, but the prestige is not the same. I’m hoping that we can get some people in before the transfer deadline."
Celtic have until 5pm on September 3 to get players in, but the UEFA deadline is 11pm the night before, on September 2, so any new signings Celtic want to have participate in the Europa League must be signed before then.
Progress has been slow over the last week or so, which is concerning given the number of signings Celtic realistically need.
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