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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Martin McMillan

FORGOTTEN HISTORY: Bbc reporter left speechless during martin oneill celtic vs rangers interview - The Untold Story

Martin O'Neill was coy discussing his line-up against Rangers (Image: Shutterstock)

BBC reporter Kheredine Idessane was 'left speechless' during an interview with Martin O'Neill ahead of Celtic's league match against Rangers.

The experienced broadcaster was interviewing the Celtic manager before kick-off an questioned whether it was a back three or back five for the hosts.

The team news saw Kieran Tierney, Liam Scales, Auston Trusty, Cameron Carter-Vickers and Colby Donovan all start, suggesting a change of shape for Celtic.

But O'Neill was coy in his pre-match interview as he said he was "not sure" over a possible back three or back five.

"We have got the option for both, absolutely," he said. "Not sure that we are going to play three or five.

"Honestly, Kheredine might as well find out in an hours time. Don't worry about it, honestly."

The journalist was, understandably, a little perplexed before moving on to ask whether the width may come from the full-backs in the lack of wingers.

O'Neill said: "Very possible. I think they could do it, without a doubt. For years I used to play three at the back and two wide players, but this is not exactly that system today."

After the interview, BBC Sportsound host Richard Gordon joked: "It's not too often the our man pitchside, Kheredine Idessane is speechless but he was rendered there by Martin O'Neill."

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