Martin O’Neill has provided an update on Kieran Tierney’s fitness after the Celtic defender picked up knocks during Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Falkirk.

The Hoops suffered another disappointing afternoon at the Falkirk Stadium, with goals from Ethan Ross and Scott Tanser handing John McGlynn’s side all three points.

Keep track of every knock and return with our Celtic injury news.

However, the Scotland international picked up a couple of knocks during the contest, prompting questions about his condition ahead of Thursday’s Europa League meeting with Beşiktaş.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, as reported by The Celtic Way, O’Neill was asked whether the defender was alright.

“He took a couple of knocks here, but I’m hoping that he’ll be OK.”

The Celtic manager did not provide further details or indicate that Tierney would be unavailable for Thursday’s match.

Tierney’s availability will be worth monitoring as Celtic prepare for another demanding week.

O’Neill’s side face Beşiktaş on Thursday before returning to Scottish Premiership action against Kilmarnock at Celtic Park on Sunday.

The left-back remained involved in Celtic’s attempts to reduce the deficit against Falkirk, delivering several dangerous balls into the penalty area.

One of those crosses found Liam Scales, but the defender headed over the crossbar from close range.

Tierney also had an opportunity of his own during the second half, sending a first-time effort wide after being picked out by Haissem Hassan.

His involvement in Celtic’s attacking play was particularly noticeable as the visitors searched for a way past former Hoops goalkeeper Scott Bain.

Despite creating several opportunities, Celtic failed to score, with Bain producing an outstanding performance against his former club.

O’Neill also provided clarity on Jota’s absence from the matchday squad before kick-off.

The Portuguese winger was left out of the travelling group for the encounter on Falkirk’s artificial surface, raising questions about his fitness following his recent return from injury.

Speaking to Sky Sports Scotland, O’Neill confirmed the decision was precautionary.

“No, he’s well. He’s just back, obviously, from injury.

“And I think in terms of the pitch, then, we thought the best, with the type of injury that he’s recovering from, might just be best to leave him.”

Those comments indicate that Jota’s omission was related to the playing surface rather than a fresh injury setback.

However, O’Neill has yet to confirm whether the winger will return to the squad against Beşiktaş.

The defeat at Falkirk left O’Neill facing further questions about his side’s recent performances.

Scott Tanser added a second before half-time, leaving the Hoops with too much to do despite creating a number of chances.

O’Neill acknowledged afterwards that Celtic needed to improve defensively, with their clean-sheet record becoming a concern.

The manager must now assess his available options for Thursday’s European fixture, with Tierney’s condition among the matters to monitor before the team is selected.

His initial comments offered some encouragement, although a clearer indication of the defender’s fitness will depend on how he recovers from Sunday’s match.

Opening the team picker…