Celtic Must Respond, But Can O’Neill Deliver?
Celtic face Motherwell after three straight defeats. Can O’Neill get the response supporters want at Fir Park?
Phillip Cooney 
Martin O'Neill (Celtic Manager) speaks to the BBC ahead of the William Hill Scottish Premiership match between Motherwell and Celtic at Fir Park, Motherwell, UK on 13 May 2026. ============================================= Use the following embed code to publish this image online: <smartframe-embed customer-id="1ffbae35d432d0d71911ca2a0b209fbb" image-id="prsiYR3E3a5B" style="width: 100%;display: inline-flex;max-width: 7742px;aspect-ratio: 7742/5164"></smartframe-embed> More info: at https://smartframe.io/embedding-support/
Celtic vs Motherwell gives Martin O’Neill’s team its first chance to answer three consecutive defeats. The Hoops return to Premiership action on Sunday, with supporters looking for a clear improvement at Fir Park.
The losses to Rangers in the cup, Ferencvaros in Europe and Rangers again in the league have left questions about Celtic’s form. The team remain near the top of the table, but recent results have made the next performance especially important.
CELTIC VS MOTHERWELL: THE PRESSURE IS ON
One win will not erase the frustration of the past few weeks. Celtic need to show greater intensity, sharper decision-making and more control across the pitch.
The recent defeats also raised questions about how the team responds when a match becomes difficult. O’Neill has had time during the international break to reflect and prepare. Now the focus moves to what his players produce on the pitch.
Celtic vs Motherwell is more than a routine return to league action. A strong performance could help rebuild confidence. Another flat display would increase concern about the team’s direction.
A DEMANDING RUN BEGINS AT FIR PARK
Sunday’s match starts a busy spell. O’Neill has said Celtic face nine games in 28 days, so a positive restart could set the tone for the weeks ahead.
Celtic cannot afford to drift through the opening stages and rely on individual quality to decide the game. They need purpose from the first whistle, control in midfield and a more dependable defensive display.
Motherwell will see this fixture as an opportunity of their own. Celtic should expect a committed home side and cannot take the result for granted. Their league position gives them something to protect, while their recent form gives them plenty to prove.
CAN O’NEILL GET THE RESPONSE?
O’Neill’s experience will not spare him scrutiny. Supporters will judge the team on its performance, not on reputation or past achievements.
Celtic vs Motherwell is a chance to begin rebuilding trust in the team’s performances. A convincing win would provide a platform. Another poor display would intensify questions about whether O’Neill can steady the side.
Celtic have the chance to answer their critics at Fir Park. The question is whether they will take it.
