Martin O’Neill explains Haissem Hassan’s surprise Celtic squad omission against Kilmarnock
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has addressed Haissem Hassan’s absence from the matchday squad for Sunday’s 1-0 Scottish Premiership victory over Kilmarnock.
The summer signing was a surprise omission from the Hoops squad at Celtic Park, having featured among O’Neill’s attacking options in recent weeks.
Liam Scales scored the only goal of the afternoon as Celtic secured another three points to move four clear at the top of the Premiership heading into the international break.
However, Hassan’s absence raised questions over his position in the squad, particularly with competition for attacking places increasing.
Asked about the winger’s omission during his post-match press conference, O’Neill suggested that his decision was part of an effort to manage his options and encourage greater competition within the squad.
He said via Celtic Player: “We’re trying to do, as much as possible, we’re trying to do a bit of manoeuvring at this minute.
“I just think it’ll be great for places. If there’s proper competition for places, it can only make us better.”
