Martin O'Neill exit decision is about to derail Celtic's entire season - verdict

Martin O'Neill has already publicly admitted that he'll be using the international break to consider his future at Celtic.

The idea of the 74-year-old walking away has certainly split opinion at Celtic Park, but the outside noise might just be too much for him.

Derek McInnes has outsmarted the Hoops' boss twice in the space of three games, most recently in front of a packed-out Celtic Park on Sunday, 20 September.

Across two Old Firm matches, including one Scottish League Cup quarter-final, Celtic registered just two shots on target, scoring from neither.

While the Gers have completely turned their form around, going on a six-game winning streak, O'Neill's side will be hoping to avoid a fourth-straight defeat after the break.

Despite their form, Celtic are still two points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership, while also playing Europa League football.

Martin O'Neill must be pushed out by Celtic hierarchy

From an outsider's view, it doesn't look like the Hoops' current situation should be seen as a crisis, but that couldn't be further from the truth.

O'Neill is a man of integrity, and if he has expressed a desire to question his own future at the club, there is a serious chance that he walks away.

Luckily for the Hoops, that is likely to be the best solution for all parties. Should he stay longer, he's at risk of ruining his legacy at Celtic Park.

Paul Lambert, Chris Sutton, Neil Lennon and Tom Boyd have all come out to defend the manager, but it seems more like them leading with their hearts, rather than their heads.

O'Neill could also let his heart take over, wanting to turn things around, but those behind the scenes need to convince him that a change is needed now.

Who could replace the Celtic boss?

It is difficult for any manager to come into one of the Old Firm clubs and win the fans over immediately, but McInnes has proven that it is possible.

Mick Brown revealed to Football Insider that Celtic have already interviewed Robbie Keane, with him considered the favourite to take over.

The 2026-27 campaign can still be a successful one at Celtic Park, with Scottish Premiership and Europa League success still on the cards.

But the longer than O'Neill sticks around, the more likely that their Old Firm rivals will take over as the dominant force this season.