Celtic manager Martin O'Neill singled out 19‑year‑old Colby Donovan after the club’s 3‑0 first‑leg win over LASK in the Champions League play‑off. Donovan was dropped in at the deep end and, according to O'Neill, "rose to the occasion and then some". He praised Donovan’s massive heart, saying that if the decision were based purely on heart, the 19‑year‑old would be the captain.
The 19‑year‑old will be needed again on Tuesday night as Celtic look to seal the tie in Austria. O'Neill noted that Donovan’s performance could save the club some hassle and money as he considers how to deal with regular right‑back Alistair Johnston, who is facing months out with injury.
O'Neill, a self‑confessed old‑school gaffer, said the Scotland manager will decide whether Donovan can replace Johnston. He added that Donovan has already proven himself in the Europa League last term and that his work ethic and willingness to "throw his body in there" were evident in the LASK match.
The manager also reflected on his own history of blooding young talent. "I signed foreign players and there are questions about the dearth of young Scottish players coming through," O'Neill said. He recalled how Shaun Maloney, Aiden McGeady and John Kennedy all broke through at a young age during his first spell in charge 25 years ago.
O'Neill expressed hope that the club’s 17‑year‑old squad, including Liam Kennedy and Sean McArdle, will develop into future stars. He said, "We have a couple of young lads playing the B team who I think will be really good players. By the time they are, I will be well and truly gone!"
The comments come as Celtic aim to maintain their 3‑0 advantage over LASK and as O'Neill continues to balance his squad with a mix of experience and youth.
