Eoghan O’Connell has explained how he always remained confident that he would get his chance at Celtic.
The young defender has answered the call from Brendan Rodgers after his backline was decimated by injuries to Dedryck Boyata, Jozo Simunovic and Erik Sviachenko.
O’Connell excelled in both matches against Astana with his manager delighted to have uncovered a fresh defensive option.
Last season however was one to forget for the defender as he managed just one top team appearance with loan spells at Oldham and Cork halted by injury.
Tomorrow night O’Connell looks certain to start against Motherwell in the Betfred Cup with the dark days of last year not impacting on his belief.
“You need confidence and belief in yourself,” he admitted. “I’m happy with how the games have been so far and will look for it to continue.
“I wouldn’t be here if I wasn’t ready to play, I’ve always had that belief. Last year was a tough one for me, there were two bad injuries but I always had that belief that I was ready to play.
“I made my debut three years ago and I have learned a lot being around the place over the past few years. I know how football is, it can change very quickly and you have to stay on it all the time.
“It’s been exciting for me to get the chance to play in the team but I know there are players coming back and I have to be at the top level.”
Efe Ambrose, Stefan Johansen and Leigh Griffiths are suspended for tomorrow’s match.
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