Martin O'Neill sets Hearts target at Celtic as returning boss names big strength Jambos have had all season

Martin O’Neill says Celtic are in for a major silverware tussle as he returns to the manager position and Premiership title race with Hearts.

The Irishman who managed the Hoops between 2000-2005 has returned for a second time this season, following the sacking of head coach Wilfried Nancy, who lost six out of his eight games in Glasgow’s east-end. O’Neill initially picked up Hoops form as interim gaffer after Brendan Rodgers’ resignation in the first half of the season and has now been handed charge of Celtic until the end of the season.

His first game will be at home to Dundee United this weekend and Hearts are locked in a title fight with O’Neill’s side, currently sitting six points in front. Rangers have also re-entered the conversation and their 2-0 win against Aberdeen midweek has pushed them into second and a game off Hearts, while the current champions drop to third. O’Neill has been assessing the title race and says the momentum factor Derek McInnes’ men at Tynecastle have carried this season is a big plus in their favour.

Martin O’Neill on Celtic title race with Hearts

He said: “I think, no bones about it, there are fewer games to play now than before, and the Rangers must have gained a psychological advantage there, and that's over us. We still have to catch Hearts, and the way that Motherwell played the other evening against Celtic, they might well be the best footballing side in the league.

“I don't know what sort of, what shall I say, the strength of the squad of, for instance, Motherwell or Hibs or something. I really don't know that there. Certainly, I watched the game against Motherwell, and they were brilliant against us, really brilliant in the game, so I don't know that. Rangers are obviously big enemies, and Hearts have got, they've had momentum all season. They've been able to win some big games, so, yeah, it is a difficult task for us, but we've got 18 games still left.

“I have to say, just every bit as strange as it was the first time. I think if you ever needed proof of anything, we're in the results business, you have to win some football matches, you know?

Martin O’Neill on return to Celtic

I've known that myself in the course of my career. It's in one aspect really nice to be back. Other ones, I genuinely feel for a manager who has had little time to get his feet under the table, I suppose put his plans across and things like that. So, yeah, it happens. But I'm here now, so I'm going to see if I can do my best.

“I felt as if I was like one of those supply teachers before. Now my time looks as if it's going to be longer. But I will have the same, just exactly the same problems. If I don't win the football matches, I come under pressure as well too. So, I'm aware of that.

“It's just it seems as if it's a bit longer. Supposedly, it's to the end of the season. You have to kind of prove yourselves. You need to win some games as well.”