"The timing of Wilfried Nancy's appointment as Celtic's new manager midweek had raised some questions, particularly given the run of results interim-manager Martin O'Neill enjoyed. Level on points ahead of this top-of-the-table meeting with a game in hand. Some thought it prudent for O'Neill to see out this crucial week against Hearts, Roma and the Premier Sports cup final against St Mirren. The argument was that change may disrupt momentum."
""The big talking point will be the change of formation," said former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner. "The first 20 minutes was maybe what he wanted, the speed, the counter-press, but you need to maintain that. "When it comes to breaking down opponents in a compact area, they have been lacking for quite a while now." A switch to a back three with Hyunjun Yang and Sebastian Tounekti deployed wide but well advanced."
Wilfried Nancy replaced interim manager Martin O'Neill midweek, creating debate over timing given O'Neill's positive results. Some preferred continuity with O'Neill to preserve momentum ahead of fixtures against Hearts, Roma and the Premier Sports Cup final, while others wanted Nancy to evaluate the squad before January. Celtic adopted a back three with Hyunjun Yang and Sebastian Tounekti pushed wide, and Benjamin Nygren and Reo Hatate occupying central spaces. Celtic produced a high-energy opening and strong first 20 minutes, but failed to sustain intensity and to break down a compact Hearts defence. Hearts won 2-1, leaving them three points clear at the top.
Read at www.bbc.com
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