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Time to fire up the DeLorean as O'Neill returns again

Just over a year ago, Celtic launched their season ticket campaign for the 2025-26 season under the tagline 'Back For The Future'.

It was a clever nod to the return of familiar faces, with manager Brendan Rodgers joined by fan favourites Kieran Tierney and Jota, all embarking on second spells at the club.

As it turns out, however, the marketing team may have been about 12 months ahead of schedule.

Because the real Back To The Future story arrived this week, with confirmation Martin O'Neill will return for at least one more season at the helm - this time as permanent manager.

It's an extraordinary turn of events for the now 74-year-old.

Even in his wildest dreams he could scarcely have imagined that, having stepped in as interim manager on two occasions last season, he'd now be preparing to lead Celtic into a new campaign as the main man once again.

Yet if the past few months have shown us anything it's that O'Neill remains as driven and as determined as ever.

Just as he embraced the challenge when he answered Celtic's call last season, he'll throw himself wholeheartedly into this one too.

And, like most fans, I'm delighted to know we'll once again see him donning the tracksuit on the sidelines in the season ahead.

No one could describe this as a long-term appointment, but few could argue O'Neill hasn't earned the opportunity.

A league title and Scottish Cup in the most unlikely of circumstances would have strengthened any manager's case, and he'll undoubtedly relish the chance to build from day one rather than arriving mid-crisis.

Retaining the title will, of course, be priority number one.

But, beyond that, there's a genuine sense of intrigue about what a Martin O'Neill side might achieve on the European stage.

His first spell delivered some of the most memorable nights in Celtic's modern history and restored belief the club could compete with some of the continent's biggest names.

It's a challenge that will surely excite him as much as any domestic campaign.

The first hurdle is getting back to Champions League level - with a two-legged play-off to navigate in August.

For O'Neill, that would mark a first time back at the tournament proper since a goalless draw against AC Milan at Celtic Park in December 2004.

And if he can guide Celtic back to the big stage while recreating even a fraction of those unforgettable nights from the early 2000s, then perhaps we really will be heading back to the future.

It looks like it's time to fire up the DeLorean one last time!

Tino can be found at The Celtic Exchange

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