Martin O’Neill reveals reason behind Václav Čvančara missing Celtic tie

Václav Čvančara was left out of Celtic F.C.’s squad for their Scottish Cup semi-final against St Mirren F.C. as part of what Martin O’Neill described as “slight rotation.”

The Czech striker, who joined on loan in January, was a notable absentee from the Hampden clash, despite contributing two goals and two assists during his spell so far. His recent performances, however, have drawn mixed reactions, with missed chances in games against Dundee and St Mirren raising questions.

O’Neill confirmed before kick-off that the 25-year-old’s omission was not due to injury, instead pointing to squad rotation and other selection decisions. Changes elsewhere included the absence of a suspended player, while others were brought into the starting lineup.

With Čvančara left out, Daizen Maeda was deployed through the middle for the semi-final.

Celtic will now look to secure their place in the final at Hampden next month, with O’Neill managing his squad carefully during a crucial stage of the season.