Luke McCowan handed Martin O’Neill lifeline as Celtic boss promises fresh opportunities

Luke McCowan has been assured that his Celtic career is far from over, with Martin O’Neill making it clear that the midfielder remains part of his plans.

The 28-year-old has been absent from the matchday squad for the last six games after being substituted at half-time during Celtic’s disappointing Premiership defeat to Rangers on September 20.

Since that afternoon at Parkhead, McCowan has struggled to get back into contention, raising questions about his place in O’Neill’s plans.

However, the Celtic manager has moved to reassure the midfielder, insisting he has not been forgotten as the champions prepare for a demanding run of fixtures before Christmas.

O’Neill believes McCowan will have opportunities to feature as Celtic balance their domestic commitments with their Europa League campaign.

Speaking about the midfielder, the manager said:

“Luke’s not been in the squad, but in my time here, he has done fine. We are trying to get a bit of strength about us.

“I spoke to Luke on Friday, so it’s something that’s been on my mind.

“He’ll be a bit frustrated because of what he did for us last season and there will be opportunities for him to get back in between now and Christmas.”

O’Neill explains McCowan’s recent struggles

McCowan arrived at Celtic from Dundee for around £1million on deadline day in August 2024 and made a positive impression during his first season at the club.

However, his performances against Rangers and LASK appear to have affected his confidence, according to O’Neill.

The Celtic boss believes the midfielder remains comfortable in possession but acknowledged that a difficult spell in those matches may have impacted his belief.

Discussing areas for improvement, he added:

“In terms of improvements? I feel Luke is very comfortable with the ball.

“He lost a bit of confidence in the game against Rangers and against LASK. He’s not to blame for proceedings. But he lost the ball a couple of times and maybe also lost a bit of confidence.

“But I’m not saying he’s rock bottom, far from it.”

McCowan is unlikely to feature in the 1pm meeting with Falkirk, but Thursday’s Europa League clash against Besiktas could provide another opportunity for him to return to the team.

Anthony Ralston also waiting for his chance

McCowan is not the only Celtic player experiencing a frustrating spell on the sidelines.

Anthony Ralston has also found opportunities difficult to come by following the emergence of Colby Donovan, who has strengthened his claim for a regular place.

O’Neill admitted he feels for both players, praising their attitude and commitment despite their lack of involvement.

Speaking to the Scottish Sun, he said:

“Luke trains brilliantly for us each day, like Tony.

“Those boys might think it’s very frustrating, but they train like demons.

“For me, I want him to play. It’s not just Luke, but you’ll have players who want to be in the side at every football club.

“You go four or five weeks without playing and you wonder if you are ever going to get in.

“That’s where the frustration and concern about your long-term objective at the club comes in.”

O’Neill’s comments offer McCowan some encouragement after several weeks out of the picture. With Celtic facing a congested schedule, the midfielder has a chance to work his way back into contention before the end of the year.