SPL: Celtic manager wins libel damages

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has accepted undisclosed libel damages over an article which implied he was considering joining Manchester United.

Articles in the Observer said his representatives had been involved in secret talks about succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson.

Mr O'Neill's solicitor Paul Hackney told the High Court the allegations questioned Mr O'Neill's loyalty and had caused great distress and anxiety.

The newspaper's publishers, Guardian Newspapers Ltd, accepted the allegations were without foundation and should not have appeared.

The front page story, headed Revealed: Plot To Oust Ferguson, mentioned "secret informal talks" between United's chief executive and Mr O'Neill's representatives.

The allegation was repeated in the sports section and it was stated an informal agreement had been reached to avoid a breach of Football League rules by United.

The front page of the Scottish edition carried the headline Celtic Boss Lined Up For United Job.

Mr Hackney said Mr O'Neill had issued proceedings because he was not prepared to allow his commitment to Celtic and its supporters to be undermined and for his reputation to be impugned.

Mr O'Neill wished it to be known he does not employ an agent and has never authorised anyone to conduct negotiations with United while contracted to Celtic.

The newspaper offered an unqualified apology and agreed to pay Mr O'Neill substantial damages and his legal costs. Mr O'Neill was not in court.