Celtic manager Martin O'Neill said Wednesday the OBE (Order of the British Empire) medal he received in the New Year's honours list was a reward for everyone connected with the Glasgow giants.

Since taking over from the ill-fated management duo of Kenny Dalglish and John Barnes at Parkhead in the summer of 2000, O'Neill has revived the 'Bhoys' fortunes in spectacular style.

During his first full season in charge Celtic won the domestic treble and last season the club reached its first major European final in 33 years when they were eventually defeated by Porto in the UEFA Cup final.

However, former Northern Ireland midfielder O'Neill played down his own contribution to Celtic's success.

"As a club, Celtic has enjoyed success in the past few years, culminating in the appearance at the UEFA Cup final last summer," he said.

"This recognition belongs to all those who have made a vital contribution to that success and I am honoured to accept it on their behalf."

As a player O'Neill, 51, won a European Cup winner's medal with Nottingham Forest under the guidance of legendary manager Brian Clough. He also played 64 times for Northern Ireland and represented his country at the 1982 World Cup where they recorded a stunning victory over hosts Spain.

After retiring, O'Neill's first management post saw him guide non-league Wycombe into the Football League in 1993.

He then took over at Leicester, keeping the cash-strapped Foxes in the Premiership and taking them to two League Cup wins and European competition.