MARTIN O’NEILL’S tactical “genius” has been hailed from an unexpected source – Kris Boyd!

The former Ibrox striker appears to have joined the list of admirers of the 73-year-old Celtic interim boss after the 3-1 Premier Sports League Cup semi-final triumph over his old club at Hampden at the weekend.

O’Neill had agreed to return to the Hoops on Monday after the dramatic resignation from Brendan Rodgers and had taken charge of the team 48 hours later for the 4-0 Premiership win over Falkirk at Parkhead on the back of consecutive defeats against Dundee and Hearts.

Johnny Kenny hit a first-half double against John McGlynn’s side and kept his place for the derby showdown at the national stadium.

The 22-year-old Irishman thumped the holders into the lead with a flashing header before they went on to finish the extra-time encounter with strikes from Callum McGregor and Callum Osmand.

Boyd reflected: “Celtic didn’t really create a lot and got a lead through a fantastic header from Johnny Kenny.

“It’s a great ball in, doesn’t matter what size you are as long as you get across the front of your man, and it’s an unbelievable flick back across.

“I must say...