Celtic Hold Talks With This Frozen Out Midfielder: Should O’Neill Allow A January Exit?

Celtic Hold Talks With This Frozen Out Midfielder: Should O’Neill Allow A January Exit? Celtic’s position at the top of the Premiership gives Martin O’Neill some room to rotate, but maintaining that advantage will require contributions from across his squad. O’Neill has already indicated that rotation will matter, particularly with Celtic facing an artificial surface and several players carrying fitness concerns. The season could therefore offer opportunities to those waiting for minutes, although McCowan has spent several weeks outside the manager’s plans. The 28-year-old has not featured in six successive matches. He made the bench for Europa League ties against Celta Vigo and Sturm Graz but missed the other four squads, after O’Neill substituted him at half-time during September’s 1-0 defeat by Rangers . His last appearance came during a difficult run that included Celtic’s 5-1 loss to LASK, which ended their Champions League hopes. The midfielder’s reduced role has prompted January speculation, despite signing a new long-term contract earlier this year. Mark Atkinson reported in The Scotsman on October 31 that McCowan had spoken with O’Neill, who expects opportunities before Christmas. The manager acknowledged his frustration, saying he was “not to blame for proceedings”. O’Neill praised McCowan and fellow sidelined player Tony Ralston for their work in training. Should Celtic keep the 28-year-old beyond January? STUTTGART, GERMANY – FEBRUARY 26: Luke McCowan of Celtic reacts during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Knockout Play-off Second Leg match between VfB Stuttgart and Celtic FC at Stuttgart Arena on February 26, 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by Sebastian Widmann/Getty Images) Celtic should give McCowan a genuine opportunity before deciding his future. O’Neill has recognised the midfielder’s quality on the ball and commitment in training, so leaving him out of the squad makes little sense with domestic and European fixtures demanding rotation. His difficult outings against Rangers and LASK affected his confidence, but two poor results should not erase the qualities that made him a useful option last season. There is a tactical question here, too. McCowan offers technical ability and energy in midfield, qualities that could help Celtic retain possession against opponents who defend deep. If O’Neill wants more defensive security, however, the midfielder must show he can protect possession under pressure and recover quickly when Celtic lose the ball. Should he fail to earn minutes before January, a departure may suit both sides, particularly if he wants regular football. Celtic should not force a sale or accept an offer without proper consideration; his new contract gives them room to negotiate.