Celtic: Martin O’Neill calls for patience on transfers

However, former Celtic midfielder John Collins believes an experienced striker could change everything.

“It’s hard playing football without a natural centre forward,” he said on BBC Scotland’s Sportsound. “Someone you can hit and you know it’ll stick.

“If you’re a midfielder you can play one-twos, knowing they can bounce it off you. You can’t do that with Maeda, he likes to run in behind. You can’t link with him.

“He’s up there doing his best, but he’s not a real centre forward for me. A good centre forward can change everything.

“You’re getting half chances, next thing you’re 3-0 up. The chances Celtic do create, if you’ve got a good striker you’re winning comfortably.”

Right-back Julian Araujo has arrived on loan from Bournemouth this month, as Celtic also look to address weaknesses in other areas, amid injuries to some key players too.

Becuase while profligacy has been costly at times this season – especially in the ill-fated Wilfried Nancy eta – it was not their major problem against Falkirk.

They only managed two shots on target and were outplayed in spells by John McGlynn’s side, who hassled in midfield and worked incredibly hard.

As a result, the hosts created the better chances and played some slick football.

Callum McGregor was isolated on the ball in midfield, despite Nygren and Arne Engels starting alongside him.

Collins believes the team also needs another athletic midfielder and a winger too.

“Engles has good games and very average games. Nygren comes in and out of games, and lacks consistency,” the former Celtic assistant said.

“One player who always wants the ball is Callum McGregor. Week in, week out he’s at a level. They’ve got to get more quality in the central area.”

Celtic’s next league game is a critical one away to Hearts, a match that will help define the destiny of the title.

If there are no new faces ready to go by then fans will be furious, never mind the much-loved O’Neill’s call for patience.