Celtic interim boss Martin O’Neill has shed light on why Luke McCowan was deployed in an unexpected role during the clash with Feyenoord. Normally a central midfielder, McCowan was positioned on the right side of a front three as Celtic travelled to Rotterdam for their Europa League fixture.
Yang Hyun-jun started on the left, while Daizen Maeda operated through the middle.
Speaking to Celtic TV before kick-off, O’Neill explained:
“Finding the right balance is something we’re constantly trying to achieve. Since James Forrest dropped out of the squad, we’ve lacked a natural right-sided winger. That means we need someone who can play as an inverted wide player, and Luke fits that profile.”
O’Neill highlighted McCowan’s impact in the previous match against St Mirren, adding that Yang had also been influential in the lead-up to the winning goal.
“The bigger point is that players need to keep showing what they can do,” the manager emphasised. “Yang has talent, but it’s about producing that level every week, not just on a one-off occasion.”
The tactical tweak worked to perfection, with Celtic earning a crucial 3–1 victory over Feyenoord.
The focus now shifts back to domestic action as the Hoops prepare to face Hibernian at Easter Road this weekend, hoping to build on their European momentum.
O’Neill reiterated his praise for McCowan’s strong cameo against St Mirren and acknowledged Yang’s contribution in that same match.
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