Concerns are growing over an aging core at Celtic following a 3-1 home defeat to Ferencvaros in the Europa League. The result, which came on September 17, has intensified scrutiny on a squad and leadership structure packed with experienced figures.

Martin O'Neill, the 74-year-old manager, addressed the tactical approach after the match. "The football club had become used to 4-3-3 and that it might take time to find another way," O'Neill said. His side had lined up in that 4-3-3 formation for the first 11 games of the season.

Key players in the side are in their thirties. Captain Callum McGregor, 33, has played a huge number of minutes this term. Winger James Forrest, 35, has started major European fixtures. Kieran Tierney's return has been managed, with the defender completing the full 90 minutes in only two of his eight outings. Summer signing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, 33, has been limited to just four appearances.

Defensive issues have compounded the problems. Auston Trusty and Liam Scales have struggled, while Cameron Carter-Vickers has faced persistent injury trouble. In the Ferencvaros loss, Anthony Ralston came on as a late substitute despite the recent arrival of right-back Jordan Lotomba from Feyenoord.

Midfielder Callum McGregor offered a frank assessment of the team's current state. "It's a little bit broken," McGregor admitted. The club spent around £25 million in the summer on recruits Kasper Hogh, Camilo Duran, and Haissem Hassan. Duran is the team's top scorer this season with three goals in six appearances, but the overall squad dynamic is under the microscope.

Boardroom questions

Questions extend beyond the pitch. Brian Wilson, 77, has served as interim chairman for nine months following the departure of 67-year-old Peter Lawwell. Chief executive Michael Nicholson is seen as answering to 76-year-old majority shareholder Dermot Desmond. The board was recently freshened with the appointments of Raymond Buchanan and Mark Keane as non-executive directors. Mark Keane is the son of John Keane, who spent two decades on the Celtic board.

Despite the off-field noise, Celtic remain top of the Premiership. They have 18 points from six wins in six games, holding a five-point lead over Rangers. Their recent form, however, shows two consecutive defeats, including a 3-0 loss at Ibrox on September 13.

The immediate focus is a swift response. Celtic host Rangers at home this Sunday, September 20, in the first Old Firm derby of the season at Celtic Park. The team will be without the injured Yang Hyun-Jun, Alistair Johnston, Callum Osmand, and Jota for that key fixture. Fans can check the latest team news and the upcoming fixtures schedule on the club site. The match offers a chance to address the growing narrative head-on.

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