O’Neill hails courage of Celts after Euro failure

CELTIC manager Martin O’Neill has hailed the courage and determination of his players following their European failure.

The club were in the doldrums as they missed out on a consolation place in the UEFA Cup after finishing bottom of their Champions League group. The early exit from Europe has prompted speculation over whether it marked the beginning of the end for O’Neill’s ageing squad and whether the manager might walk away if transfer money is not forthcoming.

The Northern Irishman faces a busy week as he discusses his budget with the board and speaks with the agents of a clutch of stars who are soon to be out of contract.