Danny Rohl has ‘big respect’ for interim Celtic boss Martin O’Neill

Danny Rohl says he has ‘big respect’ for interim Celtic boss Martin O’Neill ahead of the huge league cup semi-final clash this weekend. It’s been a chaotic October for both sets of the Old Firm as Rangers sacked Russell Martin at the start of the month, and Brendan Rodgers stunningly quit Celtic this week. Parkhead legend O’Neill returned to the club after 20  years and is now in charge on a short term basis as the Hoops look for Rodgers’ successor. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s showdown at Hampden Park, the Light Blues’ head coach paid tribute to O’Neill and his managerial career. “Big respect to such a coaching career. I think this is always great as a manager when you work so long in this business and you are successful. “I’m just at the beginning of my career. I have a lot of work to do to come to this point and from this year. “But the good thing is we start at 0-0, different generations, and let’s see what we can bring with our teams in this game.” This will be the 36-year-old’s first taste of the Old Firm derby and he can’t wait to experience the intense atmosphere of the occasion. “Growing up, it was, of course, a world-famous game. In general, I think when you see such games on the TV then you always enjoy it because there’s always action, drama, intensity, goals, tight games, fighting spirit on the pitch. It’ll be a good one. “I can remember when Hansi Flick took over, our second game was at home to Borussia Dortmund – we won 4-0. “I think this is why we love this game, to be part of such a game. It’s all or nothing. You win, you come in the final, you lose, you’re out. I think everything is on for a great game. “At the moment, the positive energy is really back, the belief is there. “We could keep a great week with three wins in a row. I think it would be fantastic. “I can give my players a lot of ideas, but they’re really listening and they bring it with a good character on the pitch and I think it’s fantastic to see. But even we know it’s just two steps forward, not more.”