Football pundit Chris Sutton explains what the interim coach Martin O’Neill did wrong during their match win against Falkirk

Celtic Fans Relive the Glory Days as Martin O’Neill Returns to the Touchline

For many Celtic supporters, Wednesday night felt like stepping back in time as Martin O’Neill once again took charge from the sidelines.

After a whirlwind few days that saw Brendan Rodgers unexpectedly resign on Monday, Celtic turned to their iconic former boss, handing O’Neill the reins once more — and he didn’t disappoint. His second debut ended in style, with Celtic cruising to a 4–0 victory over Falkirk, while fans delighted in seeing O’Neill’s trademark passion on display, reminiscent of his first spell 25 years ago.

Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton, who played under O’Neill during that golden era, enjoyed watching his old manager back doing what he does best.

“I wondered whether Martin would go for the suit or a tracksuit,” Sutton laughed. “I backed the suit, but I was wrong again — and four goals! Johnny Kenny took his chance well. Nygren’s strike was a great effort, and they needed that to get themselves going. The main thing was the three points.

“That’s what it’s about — points, goals, and bringing back the entertainment. They’re starting to click again.”

Pundit Kris Boyd couldn’t resist a light-hearted quip, adding:

“Martin will be straight into his Ferrari and up the road.”

Sutton replied with a grin:

“That’ll be the headline, won’t it? Kenny on the scoresheet again. I’ve been critical of him before, but those goals will boost his confidence. Nygren’s chipped in with a few this season too, though Scott Bain should’ve done better with that one. Then there’s Tounekti — he’s really got the fans excited. His numbers aren’t there yet, in terms of goals and assists, but that performance will do him no harm.”

Attention now turns to Sunday’s League Cup semi-final at Hampden Park, where O’Neill will face familiar foes in Rangers — a fixture that defined much of his legendary first spell in charge.

No one knows how long O’Neill will remain in the dugout, but one thing is certain: he’ll lead Celtic out at Hampden for another classic Old Firm showdown.

After donning a tracksuit for the Falkirk match, many expect O’Neill to switch back to his trademark suit for the occasion — a fitting look for a man returning to one of Scottish football’s biggest stages.