Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed Luke McCowan was omitted from the squad for the trip to Falkirk, but insists the midfielder remains part of his plans. O'Neill held talks with the 28-year-old on Friday to address his recent absence from match-day squads. The omission came for the 2-0 defeat at Falkirk on November 1, a result that interrupted a recent run of two wins, one draw and two losses.

McCowan was left out after coming off the bench at half-time in the September 20 Premiership defeat to Rangers and has not featured since. O'Neill addressed the situation directly. "No, Luke has not been in the squad," O'Neill said.

O'Neill's confidence in McCowan's return

The manager expressed confidence that McCowan can work his way back into contention. O'Neill stated the player could force his way back into the team before Christmas, emphasising his past contributions. "We’ll see," O'Neill added. "Of course if it’s over a longer time, then players want to play." McCowan has made seven substitute appearances this season and earned a new contract until 2028 after making 42 appearances last term.

Squad rotation ahead of European clash

O'Neill is set to rotate his squad ahead of a Europa League clash with Besiktas on Thursday. Players like Cameron Carter-Vickers and Jota are rebuilding fitness after injuries, which will influence selection. The manager must balance domestic and European commitments as Celtic look to maintain their league position. The team sits first in the Premiership with 28 points from 11 games, having recorded nine wins, one draw and one loss. They have scored 27 goals and conceded only eight, giving them a goal difference of plus 19. They hold a four-point lead over Rangers.

Their recent form, however, has been mixed, with the 2-0 loss to Falkirk on November 1 the latest result. The team's top scorer this season is C. Durán with seven goals in 11 appearances.

McCowan will be hoping for a chance to contribute as the schedule intensifies. Celtic's next fixture is a home match against Kilmarnock on November 8, a game where O'Neill may assess his squad rotation options. Kilmarnock currently sit 11th in the table.

Read the full report at Daily Record Football