O’Neill jumps to defence of Juninho

CELTIC manager Martin O’Neill has jumped to the defence of Juninho - even though the Brazilian’s performance at Aberdeen is unlikely to save him from a quick return to the substitutes’ bench.

The World Cup winner finally got his chance in Sunday’s 1-0 Bank of Scotland Premier League win to prove he is worthy of a regular first-team spot with his first start in the Hoops since the CIS Insurance Cup defeat to Rangers on November 10.

Juninho has become frustrated by his lack of football and at falling behind fellow midfielder Aiden McGeady in the pecking order.