Martin O’Neill has addressed Haissem Hassan’s absence from the Celtic squad for Sunday’s 1-0 win over Kilmarnock.

Hassan was not included in the matchday squad at Celtic Park despite being among O’Neill’s attacking options in recent weeks.

Asked about the winger’s absence at his post-match press conference by The Celtic Way, O’Neill pointed towards increased competition within his squad.

Catch up on Martin O'Neill's return as Celtic manager in full.

“We’re trying to do, as much as possible, we’re trying to do a bit of manoeuvring at this minute.

“I just think it’ll be great for places. If there’s proper competition for places, it can only make us better.”

O’Neill did not expand on exactly what he meant by “manoeuvring”, so there is no basis at this stage to suggest Hassan’s omission was connected to an injury, transfer situation or anything beyond the manager’s selection decisions.

What is clear is that Celtic’s options in the wide areas have increased.

Yang Hyun-jun then replaced him at half-time as he made his own return from injury, while James Forrest was also introduced during the second half.

Camilo Durán started on the opposite flank after scoring twice against Beşiktaş in midweek.

O’Neill’s reference to “proper competition for places” suggests that the battle for minutes is becoming tougher as previously unavailable players return.

Hassan will now be looking to force his way back into that picture when Celtic reconvene after the international break.

O’Neill’s answer remains deliberately vague, however, and it would be wrong to read more into the omission without further clarification.

There is still reason for Celtic supporters to question the situation. Celtic paid around £6 million for Hassan, with the deal potentially rising to £9 million through add-ons, so seeing him left out of the squad while Sebastian Tounekti and James Forrest were both selected is a concern.

Competition for places has increased with Jota and Yang Hyun-jun returning, but Hassan was a major investment and will be expected to challenge regularly for minutes.

The clearest indication from the manager is that Hassan’s absence came at a time when Celtic are trying to create stronger competition throughout the squad.

Opening the team picker…