Celtic: Martin O’Neill calls for patience in transfers

However, former Celtic midfielder John Collins believes the experienced striker can change everything.

“It’s difficult to play football without a natural striker,” he told BBC Sports Sound. “Someone you can hit and you know he’ll stay.

“If you’re a midfielder, you can play a one-two, knowing they can bounce the ball off you. You can’t do that with Maeda, he likes to run in behind. You can’t communicate with him.

“He’s doing his best, but he’s not a real centre-forward for me. A good striker can change everything.

“You get half the chances and the next thing you go 3-0 up. The chances that Celtic create, if you have a good striker you win easily.”

Right-back Julian Araujo arrived on loan from Bournemouth this month, with Celtic also looking to address weaknesses in other areas, amid injuries to some key players as well.

Because although profligacy has been costly at times this season – especially in the ill-fated Wilfried Nancy game – that was not their main problem against Falkirk.

They managed just two shots on target and were outplayed for spells by John McGlynn’s side, who struggled in midfield and worked incredibly hard.

As a result, the hosts created the best chances and played some fantastic football.

Callum McGregor was isolated on the ball in midfield, despite Nygren and Arne Engels starting alongside him.

Collins believes the team also needs another athletic midfielder and a winger as well.

The former Celtic assistant said: “Ingels has very good and average games. Nygren comes in and out of games, lacks consistency.”

“One player who always wants the ball is Callum McGregor. Week in, week out, he’s reaching the level. They have to get more quality in the central area.”

Celtic’s next league match will be crucial away to Hearts, a match that will help decide the fate of the title.

If there are no new faces ready to take part, fans will be upset, regardless of O’Neal’s endearing plea for patience.