Scottish Premiership title race: Are Celtic favourites over Hearts?

Celtic captain Callum McGregor pointed out that “it’s in our hands” after their “big win” against their city rivals on Sunday.

Only Motherwell’s defeat on Wednesday, combined with Hearts’ victory, can prevent a final-day showdown.

However, O’Neill believes he still has “two mountains to climb” if he is to lead Celtic to a fourth Scottish title and first in 22 years.

“I was never confident,” the 74-year-old Northern Irishman said. “People have told me that momentum and momentum can change at any moment.

“We have to win because I would expect Hearts to win. We’ve got a really tough game at Motherwell but I think the run we’ve been on gives us the confidence to compete.”

O’Neill remained undecided on whether this would be the last Old Firm derby when asked whether the league and cup double could persuade him to stay at Celtic.

However, Lennon thinks seeing off the experienced player with a win will be another motivating factor for the players.

Hearts are unbeaten against Celtic this season, winning two of their three encounters, but Motherwell midfielder Andy Halliday also pointed out the O’Neill factor was potentially crucial.

“None of Celtic’s January signings are in the starting 11,” the former Hearts and Rangers player said. “So what he did was make all the players Celtic already had better.

“Celtic are on a five-game winning streak. You talk about mentality and playing at your best at the right time and Celtic have now achieved their own goal.

“But Hearts have been looking to win for 30 weeks in a row, so it will be a very interesting finish.

“We were salivating for the post-split games and they were everything we hoped for. I don’t think that will change.”