Manager Martin O'Neill believes that qualifying for the Champions League is vital for Celtic's ability to attract new players and elevate the club's standing. The Scottish champions are set to face Austrian side LASK in the play-off round, aiming to avoid a repeat of last year's early exit.
Celtic has invested approximately £30 million in four new signings this summer. However, the club has yet to secure a direct replacement for Arne Engels, who transferred to West Ham for £22 million. O'Neill expressed confidence that securing a place in the Champions League would strengthen their position in the transfer market before the window closes on September 3.
"If we can progress, you'd think then there are some players you are looking at and who might be dallying, they might think the Champions League is worthwhile going for," O'Neill stated. "I think if you did qualify for the Champions League, even though you only have a period of a week or something, you might be able to attract other players from that viewpoint. So, it's got all its merits, of course, financially. But for me, it's the prestige as much as anything else."
While the additions of Camilo Duran, Kasper Hogh, Haissem Hassan, and Mika Baur have addressed some squad needs, the departure of Engels without an immediate replacement has drawn criticism. O'Neill acknowledged fan concerns about the timing of Engels' transfer but maintained that the club had actively sought a suitable replacement.
"Yeah, I will understand any arguments put forward about that," O'Neill said. "If I was looking at it from a distance, ideally, it'd be great (to have kept him)." He explained that Engels was determined to move to London and did not wish to risk injury in potential future games. O'Neill also mentioned attempts to persuade Engels to stay until after the play-off tie.
Regarding the upcoming match, O'Neill described LASK as a formidable opponent. "I think the game is going to be very, very difficult. I think they're a very fine side, champions of Austria," he noted. "We've watched them now on numerous occasions. We've had people watching them live. So, they're very strong, very, very competitive. Very fast up front as well too. Lots of good players on the side. And they're very, very strong. Physically strong as well too. So, this will be a difficult task for us."
O'Neill reported no fresh injury concerns for Celtic, aside from Alistair Johnston, who is expected to be out until next month with a hamstring issue.
