Maloney warns Celtic to fight for Europe as campaign stalls

Inside Celtic Park, assistant manager Shaun Maloney paced the tunnel on 21 October, urging his players to rediscover the fighting spirit that once secured the club’s European reputation. After LASK knocked them out of the Champions League and defeats to Ferencvaros and Benfica in the Europa League, tonight’s clash with Celta Vigo offers a chance to turn the tide.

The interview was conducted by JOHN MCGARRY, SCOTTISH CHIEF SPORTS FEATURE WRITER, on 21 October. He recorded Maloney’s remarks as the team prepared for the Celta Vigo fixture.

European setbacks

Celtic, the Scottish Champions, were eliminated from the Champions League by Austrian side LASK. Their Europa League start has been poor, suffering a 3‑1 home defeat to Ferencvaros and a 4‑1 loss away to Benfica in Lisbon. The twin setbacks have left Martin O’Neill’s squad under pressure ahead of their next fixture.

O’Neill’s men must secure a positive result against Celta Vigo tonight to keep any hope of reaching the Europa League knockout stage. A win or draw would revive the campaign and restore belief among the players and supporters.

Supporter unrest

The Green Brigade has announced a boycott of the Celta Vigo clash, continuing a protest over the club’s management that began after the Benfica defeat. With the 60th anniversary of the Lisbon Lions approaching in May, Maloney stresses that current players must honour the legacy each time they step onto a continental pitch.

Martin O'Neill rejects Jekyll and Hyde tag as Celtic stumble in Europe

“Our reputation in Europe is really important,” Maloney said. “We felt that last year … the European games are so important to the club and the history of the club that you have to go for it.” He made the remarks on 21 October at Celtic Park, underlining the urgency of the Euro campaign.

Historical perspective

Celtic last beat Celta on away goals 24 years ago, a result that propelled O’Neill’s side of that era to the UEFA Cup final in Seville. The memory adds pressure to repeat such a historic achievement.

When asked whether Celtic can realistically aim for a deep European run, MALONEY admitted the task is difficult after the defeats but pointed to clubs with similar budgets that have progressed far. “We have to get everything right – coaches, recruitment, all departments – to achieve that,” he explained.

Squad availability

Training has resumed, yet Cameron Carter‑Vickers and Alistair Johnston are unlikely to feature, with a possible trip to Easter Road on Sunday. Auston Trusty also sits out due to a personal issue, and O’Neill missed the pre‑match media conference for his own personal matter.