O'Neill talks imminent

Martin O'Neill has no cash to spend on new players

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill insists that his long drawn-out contract negotiations will be resolved by the time his side return to Glasgow after the winter break.

His present deal is due to expire at the end of the season and the concern among the supporters has intensified along with the board's failure to tie him to a new contract.

But, with a winter break in Florida rapidly approaching after Thursday's trip to Aberdeen, the Celtic boss says matters should be resolved between himself and major shareholder Dermot Desmond.

"I would say that the situation will be clarified," admitted O'Neill.

By the time we come back again, I should have spoken to the board

Celtic boss Martin O'Neill

"Believe it or not, we have genuinely not had the chance to do so.

"The last time I spoke to Dermot Desmond was a couple of weeks ago and he was hinting then we should get together and he thought the winter break was as good a time as any.

"It gives the board an opportunity without worrying about the Saturday match coming up.

"It is a three-week break, so by the time we come back again I should have spoken to the board."

O'Neill has also revealed that he will be looking to revive contract talks with influential midfielder Stilian Petrov in January after negotiations recently broke down.

"I've not given up hope of resolving that," said O'Neill.

I would certainly rule out the buying of players

Celtic boss Martin O'Neill

"Stilian deserves a new contract and has done exceptionally well for it.

"It is my intention to try and resurrect that. I didn't think we were too far apart and I haven't spoken directly to his agent recently with the games coming up."

It is set to be a busy January for the Northern Irishman, but he has ruled out the prospect of making any permanent signings during the transfer window.

But, although cash is tight, he will look at the possibility of bringing in a new player on loan.

"I would certainly rule out the buying of players, but the money we have got in from the Uefa ties and potential of the German tie with Stuttgart would make the possibility of getting a loan signing and I will look at that and see," said O'Neill.