SPL: O'Neill tells Balde to take it easy

Martin O'Neill reckons Celtic's Bobo Balde must learn to restrain himself in tackles, for the safety of himself and others.

O'Neill has fined the defender for catching Hibernian's Paul Fenwick in the face with his arm during Saturday's 1-1 draw.

Balde also has the threat of punishment by the Scottish Football Association looming over him when they discuss the incident on Thursday morning.

He was recently backed by O'Neill after coming under fire from Hearts manager Craig Levein and midfielder Thomas Flogel following a tackle.

But the Celtic boss admits Balde should learn to not be so aggressive in challenges.

O'Neill said: "He is still learning the game, but I feel that he doesn't have to be exuberant every time he gets to the ball.

"He wants to try and win the ball and I haven't seen him showing the greatest concern for his own safety.

"He needs to be less exuberant and I think through the course of time he will learn that the ball is not there to be won all the time.

"If you can't see it first of all then you don't make the challenge and don't knock into people's backs or commit needless fouls in tackling."