Martin O'Neill handed 'huge' Celtic boost after what he saw vs Motherwell

Martin O'Neill and Celtic have been handed a "huge" boost after Jota returned to first-team action against Motherwell.

The Hoops took all three points thanks to a 2-0 win at Fir Park, with the 27-year-old's return capping what was an impressive afternoon despite the pressure on O'Neill's side.

The winger came off the bench in the 73rd minute to make his first competitive appearance for Celtic since he suffered a cruciate ligament injury in April 2025.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Jota's return could have a big impact both on and off the pitch after the fans' response to his return.

Pressure had started to build in the stands at Parkhead after a poor run before the international break, and O'Neill will take any opportunity to ease those frustrations.

Jota's return will be welcome on the pitch, where he could play a key role in what had become a problem position, but also in the stands with fans happy to see him back in action.

Celtic warned to be cautious with Jota's comeback

Former Aberdeen CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider on 7 October that Celtic must be careful with Jota's return and not rush him back into action too quickly.

While the winger's return will be widely celebrated at Parkhead, and there was a feeling that his comeback could be fast-tracked in a bid to appease the unhappy fans.

Given the extent of his injury, Celtic have been warned to be careful with his recovery, but his return will be a significant boost for O'Neill after a difficult period.

"Having Jota back is going to be a huge boost for Celtic both on and off the pitch," Brown told Football Insider.

"He's a top player, or at least he was before his injury, we will have to wait and see how he gets on after coming back because it can be difficult when you've been out for that long.

"But he'll be coming back in a position which has been a bit of a problem for Celtic, so that will be a boost by itself.

"Plus, we know the mood has been a bit negative around the club recently, so having a fans' favourite back on the pitch will lift spirits in the stands which could be equally as important.

"Any opportunity to win back a bit of favour will be ideal for Martin O'Neill because he needs to appease the fans and start to win them over again.

"A win against Motherwell, a clean sheet, and having Jota back in action will all go a long way to putting things right and easing those tensions which had grown before the break."

What does Jota's return mean for Celtic's plans?

Jota's return may not just have an impact on the pitch and in the stands, but also with regard to Celtic's transfer plans as they prepare for the January window to open.

A new right-winger had been high on O'Neill's list of priorities after a difficult season so far, with the boss keen to strengthen problem positions in the upcoming window.

Football Insider revealed on 11 October that Celtic have assessed options out wide as a result of lingering concerns surrounding Jota's injury and return to action.

Given the length of time he has spent on the sidelines, there are still doubts about whether Jota will be at his best when he returns to a more regular role in the side.

Meanwhile, there are also concerns about the potential of picking up a fresh blow, and they hope to have ample cover should he be sidelined again at any stage.