Martin O’Neill expecting a tough test against Utrecht

A week ago, Celtic battled to the final whistle in Bologna to earn a hard-fought point away from home in the penultimate match of their Europa League league phase campaign. That result, allied with results elsewhere last Thursday evening, means that the Hoops go in to tomorrow night’s Europa League game at Celtic Park knowing that a win will secure their place in the knockout phase of the competition. Standing between Celtic and progression beyond the league phase is Eredivisie side FC Utrecht, who are mathematically out of the competition, having picked up only one point from their seven matches so far. Despite their lowly position in the Europa League table, and the fact that they are currently 11th from 18 in the Dutch Eredivisie, Celtic manager Martin O’Neill says that his side will need to be at the top of their game against Utrecht to take all three points from the match. Speaking to the media at Lennoxtown this afternoon, the manager said: “We have to win the game. It’s as simple as that. If we do win the game, we’re through. “It’s not as easy as that. I’ve had a look at them and, despite their recent record, these boys can play. ‘They’re definitely a decent side, coming here with nothing to concern themselves.’ “They’re probably thinking let’s go out and enjoy it, and that’s a danger in itself. “They can play. You give them an opportunity, and they will cause you problems.”MANAGER’S FULL PRESS CONFERENCE Trusty red card appeal The importance of European football January transfer window The experience of Celtic Park on euro nights MORE PRE-MATCH BUILD UP Benjamin Nygren aims to take home advantage - Full story Training Gallery: Celtic v FC Utrecht – View now Celtic FC Quiz: Celtic v FC Utrecht – Take the quiz FixturesCeltic Vs. FC Utrecht – Thu, Jan 29th 2026, 20:00