O'Neill wants Johnston and Engels for Celtic CL playoff

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has expressed his hope to retain key players Alistair Johnston and Arne Engels for the club's upcoming Champions League playoff, despite significant transfer interest from Premier League clubs Everton and West Ham United. The pair started and played the full match in Celtic's 1-0 season-opening victory over Dundee at Celtic Park on August 3, a win secured by a second-half header from Benjamin Nygren.

O'Neill acknowledged the ongoing speculation surrounding the two players, with Everton scouting right-back Johnston and West Ham targeting midfielder Engels. Speaking after the match, the manager confirmed both players had expressed a desire to continue playing while their futures remain uncertain. He stated that while he was naturally concerned about the psychological impact of transfer rumors, he was satisfied with their performances and professionalism during the game.

When asked specifically about keeping the duo for the crucial European tie against Austrian champions LASK, O'Neill was clear about his preference. He said ideally it would be brilliant to have them available, but conceded the decision is not entirely in Celtic's hands, as the...