Celtic’s Stuttgart rally highlights the O’Neill effect and should be a warning for Rangers

By refusing to fold in Germany, Celtic showed the resilience that would serve them well in Sunday’s derby at IbroxA European occasion that appeared ominous for Celtic instead provided evidence that it is never wise to write off Martin O’Neill. Celtic exited the Europa League in Stuttgart but the scale of spirit and togetherness visible during their 1-0, second-leg victory emphasised that tales of their demise may be overstated.Celtic’s key attribute during a critical week, which begins at Ibrox on Sunday, is course and distance specialism. The shortcomings within and patched-up nature of O’Neill’s squad are blindingly obvious. This is, however, a club that has become accustomed to dominating Scottish football over more than a decade. Much earlier, O’Neill had demonstrated he could emerge successful from title scraps. Contrary to giddy analysis, there is nothing miraculous or remarkable about O’Neill’s work during his second short-term stint of the season. It is, though, immediately striking how a 73-year-old can achieve such buy-in from players. Faith in O’Neill within Celtic is absolute.