Martin O'Neill in Hospital After Small Procedure

Martin O'Neill remains in hospital after what Celtic described as "a small procedure", with the club expecting their manager to be discharged within the next 48 hours.

The 74-year-old, who was only confirmed as permanent boss in the summer after steering Celtic to a Premiership and Scottish Cup double last season, is said to be recovering well. No details of the procedure have been made public, with the club drawing a clear line around his and his family’s privacy.

O'Neill was on the touchline as recently as Monday, overseeing a 1-0 win over Dundee at Parkhead as Celtic opened the defence of their league title. His presence, animated and demanding as ever, gave no hint that a hospital visit lay ahead.

The club moved to address growing speculation with a short, carefully worded statement.

“In response to speculation, we can confirm that Martin O'Neill has undergone a small procedure in hospital.

“We would envisage Martin being released from hospital in the next day or two and on behalf of Martin, we would like to thank supporters for their kind wishes.

“We would ask that the privacy of Martin and his family is respected.”

The message reflects the mood around the club. Concern, yes, but also a sense of calm that this is a minor interruption rather than a looming crisis.

Supporters, buoyed by last season’s double and the winning start to this campaign, will now wait for clarity on whether O'Neill can resume full duties in time for Sunday’s trip to Kilmarnock, live on Sky Sports. The fixture already carried the usual weight of an early-season away test; it now comes with the added question of whether Celtic’s manager will be back in the dugout or forced to watch his champions from a distance.