O'Neill's Praise
Martin O'Neill, the former Celtic manager now coaching Scotland, said the 19‑year‑old Colby Donovan "may not have all the things that Alistair Johnston possesses. But he has massive heart. That will be up to the Scotland manager to decide that. But if it was on pure heart alone, Colby would be the captain." The old‑school gaffer highlighted Donovan's "body in there and getting challenges" during the LASK match.
Donovan's Champions League Performance
Donovan was dropped in at the deep end in last week’s Champions League play‑off first leg against LASK. He rose to the occasion, playing a key role in Celtic’s 3‑0 first‑leg lead. The 19‑year‑old had already proven himself in the Europa League last term, showing the ability to step up in European games.
Future Prospects for Scotland
O'Neill said that Donovan "could save O’Neill some hassle and a whack of cash as he considers how to deal with regular right‑back Alistair Johnston facing months out." He added that the door is open for Donovan for club and country, and that he will be needed again on Tuesday night as Celtic look to seal the deal in Austria.
O'Neill's Youth Philosophy
The former Celtic boss has a reputation for blooding youngsters. He recalled his first spell, noting how Shaun Maloney, Aiden McGeady and John Kennedy broke through. "I think back to my early playing days and every side in the First Division had Scots," O'Neill said, pointing to the importance of developing home‑grown talent.
Emerging Scottish Talents
O'Neill mentioned a few young Scots: "We have a couple of young lads playing the B team who I think will be really good players. By the time that they are, I will be well and truly gone! They’re only 17 now, one called Liam Kennedy, who is a really good footballer. I’m also hoping that wee Sean McArdle pushes on and comes right through."
