Martin O'Neill says Celtic must manage player fitness levels

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill states his squad must navigate a period of limited availability while key players work toward full match fitness. The team managed a 2-1 victory over Falkirk on Saturday despite the absence of Callum McGregor due to illness, as well as Kasper Hogh, Alistair Johnstone, and Reo Hatate due to injury. Long-term absentee Jota remains sidelined, and the club faces further concerns regarding the health of Kieran Tierney and Callum Osmand. O'Neill attributed the current squad fatigue to a disjointed pre-season during which senior players were unavailable due to international commitments. The manager noted that recent matches, including a 120-minute outing against LASK in Austria, placed significant strain on the roster. The staff continues to monitor the condition of players such as Cameron Carter-Vickers and Colby Donovan, who required substitution due to cramping in recent fixtures.

• 5:34 PMYahoo Sports — Celtic must 'hang in there' until fitness returns - O'Neill