Even though Celtic won the domestic double last season and are currently sitting at the top of the Premiership table, it shouldn’t hide the chaos on and off the pitch this season.

Despite all of that, Colby Donovan, even if indirectly, has been able to rise from the academy and into the first team.

On Sunday, Celtic thrashed Hearts 7-1, with Donovan starting at right-back, and Martin O’Neill lauding the youngster for his ‘improvement.’

Despite having to work under three different managers and so much unrest, O’Neill lauded how far Donovan has come, as he told his post-match press conference.

How high is the bar for Colby Donovan, and what can he achieve in his career?

Martin O’Neill lauds Colby Donovan’s ‘improvement’ after Celtic put seven past Hearts

Alistair Johnston’s constant injuries have opened the door for Donovan to start more matches. You have to question: had he not been injured so much, then where would the young Celt be right now?

Either way, however it has come about, O’Neill hit the nail on the head about what Donovan has done during these past 12 months because it has been a joy to watch.

“Colby is improving all the time,” said O’Neill. “Particularly pleased because Colby was up against a really decent player as well.

“His improvement in a year has been really nice to see.”

Donovan’s stats for Celtic during win over Hearts

O’Neill’s praise for Donovan shouldn’t be a surprise, and it’s everything he deserves because he feels right at home right-back.

Sometimes there has been chaos to his game, prone to giving away a few fouls here and there, but that’s no bother, and the lack of stability around him doesn’t help.

But as Celtic sent Hearts packing once more at the weekend, Sofascore handed Donovan a very healthy rating of just over seven.