Jackie McNamara tells Celtic where O’Neill ‘needs help’ this summer

Jackie McNamara has praised Martin O’Neill’s appointment as Celtic manager – but warned he will need help in the recruitment department this summer.

O’Neill, who took the permanent role after his interim stint, will lead the team in the upcoming season.

McNamara believes that a squad rebuild is necessary, with the expected departures of Arne Engels, Daizen Maeda, and Reo Hatate.

He stressed the importance of effective recruitment and astute talent-spotting to fill these gaps.

McNamara told Sky Sports: “I’m delighted he’s staying on, there’s no secret Martin’s there to win, that’s what he’s good at.

“He got the best out of what he had at the end of the season there, got them over the line and there’s not many people who could have done that.”

Alongside his praise, McNamara also pointed out the need for additional support in recruitment, especially with the aim of progressing to the Champions League group stages.

He said: “Now looking ahead to try and get into the Champions League group stages, he needs a bit of help with recruitment and getting the right players in.”

He also hopes for the return of key players like Cameron Carter-Vickers, who he noted were “a big loss for Celtic last year.”