Martin O’Neill navigates Celtic through choppy waters

Yang Hyun-jun and Ryu Hatat put Celtic ahead after Ayase Ueda gave Feyenoord the lead, before Benjamin Nygren’s late goal secured a historic win.

This is Celtic’s first victory in the Netherlands since 2001, when O’Neill was the first coach and eliminated Ajax from the Champions League qualifiers.

“We played really well,” he said. “There was a period where we controlled the ball and showed a lot of confidence, which is nice to see.

“We could have gone down by a goal if we had been a goal down. But we showed our character and resilience, and then when we scored the equaliser, confidence flowed through us.

“I told the players: ‘You’ll have a chance to play tonight.’ We took advantage of that opportunity.”

Celtic will play Roma and Utrecht at home, either side of a trip to Bologna, in the remaining three matches in the league stage. The team ranks 21st in the league table, which includes 36 teams, with seven points.

“Looking at last season, you’re looking for 10 or 11 points to qualify,” O’Neill added. “It won’t be easy, but Celtic have two home games and confidence in the team now.”

Columbus Crew coach Wilfried Nancy appears close to appointing Rodgers’ permanent successor, and O’Neill believes Celtic are well placed for a new coach, whoever that may be.

“He’s got some guys who have had big wins,” O’Neill said. “I’m sure it will build on some of these players, and then it will be about improving some of the other players.

“Reinstating trust is a big thing and it will continue beyond that.

“Winning away from home is great – it’s not easy away from home in Europe. It gives them belief that they can come and compete.”