Martin O'Neill exclusive: On nerves of Celtic return, 'unconvincing' recruitment under Paul Tisdale - and chasing down Hearts

Returning Celtic manager Martin O'Neill was worried about being considered "too old" to lead the club before returning for a second and then third spell earlier this season, and suggested he was unconvinced about their recruitment under former transfer chief Paul Tisdale.

O'Neill, one of Celtic's greatest ever coaches, was drafted back in on a temporary basis following the resignation of Brendan Rodgers earlier this season and took over a side eight points adrift of leaders Hearts, before masterminding a run of five consecutive league wins - and one in Europe - from seven matches to restore their title hopes.

That was meant to be that for the 73-year-old's managerial career but he made a second return to Celtic Park only 32 days after handing the reins to Wilfried Nancy following the Frenchman's horrific eight-game spell in the hot seat.