Martin O'Neill has stated his past achievements with Celtic do not place him beyond scrutiny as his team prepares for a key Old Firm derby. The manager, who returned for a second spell last season, acknowledged accountability is immediate despite his historic success at the club.

O'Neill guided Celtic to a league and cup Double last term, adding to the seven major honours he won during his first tenure between 2000 and 2005. He agreed to stay in charge for this campaign, but recent results have brought intense focus. Celtic's form in significant matches has dipped sharply, culminating in a 3-0 defeat to Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup last Sunday and a 3-1 Europa League loss to Ferencvaros on Thursday.

O'Neill said he never believed his legacy offered immunity, remarking that a manager is only judged by their most recent performance.

Pressure builds ahead of derby

The manager's comments come ahead of the first Premiership meeting of the season with Rangers at Parkhead. Celtic currently lead the league, sitting first with 18 points from six wins, five points clear of their rivals in second. However, the team's recent form shows three wins and two losses from the last five games, with consecutive defeats against Rangers and Ferencvaros.

O'Neill insisted the possibility of being replaced does not concern him. He said that such a call would not bother him, adding it could just as easily come from a family member. The manager is focusing on a response, with a win capable of opening a significant gap over Rangers. Another defeat would see the Ibrox side close the gap before the international break.

Boardroom changes confirmed

Off the pitch, Celtic have added Mark Keane and Raymond Buchanan to their board as non-executive directors. Keane, the son of former chairman John Keane and founder of the Slievemore investment office, takes up his position immediately. Buchanan, a former BBC political correspondent and current director of corporate affairs at Scottish Water, will join upon concluding his present role. They replace the retired Peter Lawwell and Tom Allison.

The immediate focus returns to the pitch, where Celtic must cope without several sidelined players. The team's next fixture is the home clash with Rangers, a match that will shape the early title narrative.

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