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Celtic Manager O'Neill Eyes Unity After Europa Defeat

BBC Sport Football •
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Celtic manager Martin O'Neill described achieving unity across the club as 'utopia' following Thursday's 4-1 Europa League defeat to Stuttgart at Celtic Park. The loss leaves Celtic needing to score at least three goals in next Thursday's return leg in Germany to progress in the knockout play-off.

O'Neill, in his second spell as Celtic boss this season, must now shift focus to Sunday's Scottish Premiership clash against Hibernian. Celtic currently sit third in the league table, a point behind Rangers and three adrift of Hearts, though they hold a game in hand over both rivals. Hearts face Falkirk on Saturday while Rangers travel to Livingston on Sunday.

O'Neill acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting Hibernian caused Celtic problems in their previous meeting and have performed well against Hearts recently. The match comes amid ongoing supporter protests against the club's board, with some fans boycotting matches including last weekend's Scottish Cup win over Dundee. Thursday's game was briefly halted when tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch, prompting Uefa to review potential disciplinary action.