Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has instructed his players to stay off social media and maintain their focus on securing a return to the Champions League. The Scottish club is on the verge of advancing to the competition's knockout stages after a decisive 3-0 victory over LASK in Glasgow.
The team is set to travel to Austria for the second leg of the qualifying match, where O'Neill stressed there will be no room for complacency, despite their significant first-leg advantage.
"Honestly, I swear to you, there will be no complacency," O'Neill stated. "The players know it, they absolutely do know that we're playing against a really good side. They're capable of scoring with a lot of pace up front. They're strong, athletic and even their smaller lads are very, very quick. So, we've got our work cut out."
O'Neill also advised his players against engaging with online platforms. "One thing I said to the players was don't be going on Facebook or Instagram, or whatever else they call it. I told them, leave it, leave it. They know. And if they don't know then they shouldn't be playing the game."
O'Neill, who last managed in the Champions League in the 2004-05 season, acknowledged the importance of this potential return. He highlighted the defensive effort in the first leg, particularly the performance of teenager Colby Donovan, who is likely to deputize for the injured Alistair Johnston.
"The defence was great, really, really great," O'Neill reflected. "I suppose it was probably epitomised by Colby, throwing his body in there and getting challenges in. He really stuck to the task. He may not have all the things that Alistair Johnston possesses. But he has massive heart."
Donovan's performance also drew the attention of new Scotland manager Sebastien Pocognoli. O'Neill commented on the potential for Donovan to represent Scotland, stating, "That will be up to the Scotland manager to decide that. But if it was on pure heart alone, Colby would be the captain."
O'Neill also touched upon the development of young Scottish players, expressing hope that Donovan's emergence could inspire others. He mentioned Liam Kennedy and Sean McArdle as promising talents within the club's academy.
"I think I earned my spurs in that aspect," he said regarding developing young players. "But it's like everything else, young players will come through if they're good enough."
In other club news, O'Neill confirmed the need for a new goalkeeper before the transfer window closes. The club has been linked with Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper Balazs Toth.
"We need another goalkeeper," O'Neill confirmed. "We'll be bringing in competition, but he can only thrive on that. That's the whole point."
O'Neill reiterated the personal significance of qualifying for the Champions League, expressing his eagerness for the upcoming match.
