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FANS WANT ALAN SHEARER BANNED FROM SKY SPORTS AFTER WHAT HE SAID FOLLOWING CELTIC’S 2-2 DRAW WITH AC MILAN
Celtic’s entertaining 2-2 draw against AC Milan in a preseason club friendly has sparked a wave of controversy, with former England striker Alan Shearer coming under heavy criticism from supporters after his comments about the Scottish champions and manager Martin O’Neill.
The Hoops looked to be cruising toward an impressive victory after racing into a two-goal lead in the first half. New signing C. Durán opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a composed finish before veteran winger James Forrest doubled Celtic’s advantage in the 28th minute, sending the fans into celebration.
However, AC Milan mounted a spirited comeback after the break. Promising youngster Francesco Camarda pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 47th minute before striking again just five minutes later to level the match at 2-2. Despite the Italian side’s recovery, many Celtic supporters viewed the performance as a positive step ahead of the new campaign.
That optimism was overshadowed by Alan Shearer’s remarks during Sky Sports’ Sunday football show, where the former Newcastle United striker delivered a blunt assessment of Celtic’s current situation.
According to the discussion, Shearer argued that Celtic had weakened themselves by allowing one of their biggest stars to leave the club, claiming the decision could have serious consequences over the course of the season.
He also directed criticism at manager Martin O’Neill, suggesting the experienced coach should consider retirement instead of continuing in the role.
“O’Neill has already built a legacy that many managers can only dream of,” Shearer reportedly said during the debate. “Sometimes it’s better to protect that legacy rather than risk damaging it. Celtic have made decisions that could cost them, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they spend much of the season fighting just to finish second.”
Those comments immediately triggered a strong reaction across social media, where many Celtic supporters accused Shearer of showing disrespect toward both the club and its manager.
Several Celtic fans demanded that Sky Sports distance itself from the former striker, with some even calling for him to be removed from the broadcaster’s football coverage.
SOME OF FANS REACTION ON X
@MichaelThompson:
“Alan Shearer clearly doesn’t watch Celtic regularly. Judging our entire season after one preseason friendly is ridiculous. Martin O’Neill deserves far more respect than that.”
@RyanMcGregor:
“Ban him from talking about Celtic if that’s his opinion. We played some excellent football against AC Milan, and all he could do was criticize. Embarrassing punditry.”
@SarahCampbell:
“Shearer saying O’Neill should retire is completely out of order. He’s earned the right to continue as long as he wants. Respect the man and his achievements.”
@LiamFraser:
“We were 2-0 up against a top European side and showed plenty of positives. Yes, we need to improve defensively, but saying we’ll finish second is laughable.”
@ConnorWallace:
“Alan Shearer always seems to underestimate Scottish football. Celtic will prove him wrong when the season starts. Bookmark this.”
@EmmaStewart:
“I’m disappointed with Shearer’s comments. Pundits should analyze the game fairly, not write off a club before the league has even kicked off.”
Many supporters also defended Martin O’Neill, insisting his experience remains invaluable and that questions over retirement should not dominate discussions after a friendly fixture.
The debate has quickly become one of the biggest talking points following the match, highlighting just how passionate Celtic supporters remain whenever the club comes under criticism from high-profile pundits.
From a footballing perspective, Celtic’s performance offered both positives and areas for improvement. Their attacking play in the opening 45 minutes caused AC Milan significant problems, while Durán’s goal and Forrest’s finish demonstrated the team’s ability to create quality chances against elite opposition.
At the same time, conceding twice within seven minutes after halftime exposed defensive vulnerabilities that will need attention before the competitive campaign begins.
Manager Martin O’Neill is expected to focus on improving the team’s defensive concentration while building on the attacking combinations that looked so promising during the first half.
For AC Milan, the comeback showcased the quality of teenager Francesco Camarda, whose quick-fire brace underlined why he is regarded as one of Italy’s brightest young talents.
Despite the criticism from Shearer, many neutral observers viewed the friendly as a useful exercise for both clubs rather than a result that should define expectations for the season ahead.
Preseason fixtures are often used to build fitness, test tactical systems, and integrate new players, making sweeping conclusions difficult after a single exhibition match.
Nevertheless, Shearer’s comments have ensured the conversation has shifted away from the football itself and toward the wider debate over pundit responsibility and respect for clubs and managers.
Whether Sky Sports responds to the backlash remains to be seen, but the incident has certainly reignited discussions about the influence television analysts have on fan opinion.
As Celtic continue their preparations for the new season, the players and coaching staff will likely be determined to answer any criticism where it matters most on the pitch.
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