Celtic entered the international break in desperate need of a reset after suffering three damaging defeats in the space of eight days.

Martin O’Neill’s side remain top of the Scottish Premiership, but the mood around the club changed dramatically during a miserable run which placed the manager and his players under fresh scrutiny.

The problems began with a 3-0 defeat away at Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup.

Celtic struggled to cope with the intensity of Derek McInnes’ side and were eliminated without offering enough resistance.

A 3-1 home defeat against Ferencvaros followed in the Europa League, increasing the pressure ahead of another Old Firm meeting just three days later.

O’Neill changed his formation for that game and selected a back three, but the alteration could not prevent Celtic from losing 1-0 at Parkhead.

Ryan Naderi scored the only goal during the first half as Rangers earned their second victory over Celtic in the space of eight days, with the hosts having plenty of possession but once again struggling to turn it into clear chances.

Celtic scored only once and conceded seven goals across those three defeats.

Their attacking play lacked speed, their confidence appeared damaged, and the supporters made their frustration crystal clear at full-time.

Despite that collapse, the Hoops remain two points above Rangers at the top of the league after collecting 18 points from seven matches.

The trip to Motherwell on Sunday offers Celtic an immediate opportunity to steady themselves.

Fir Park is rarely a comfortable place to visit, especially when confidence is low.

Motherwell will look to place Celtic’s defence under early pressure and test whether the break has repaired any of the damage caused by those consecutive losses.

O’Neill is now expected to make a significant tactical change for the game.

Martin O’Neill plans Celtic formation U-turn as January decision emerges

According to Football Insider's Pete O'Rourke, the Celtic boss is preparing to abandon the back three used against Rangers and return to his more familiar back four.

The report claims the Old Firm switch was designed specifically to match Rangers’ shape rather than signal a permanent change in approach.

O’Neill is therefore likely to restore a 4-2-3-1 system against Motherwell, with Celtic’s coaching staff believing it remains the best structure for the players currently available.

Moving back to four defenders should allow Celtic to place another player in midfield or attack, and that could help them move the ball forward more quickly and provide greater support around the striker.

The decision is also said to have influenced Celtic’s plans for the January transfer window.

Celtic make January transfer decision about signing centre-back

Football Insider also report that they've decided not to prioritise another centre-back in the winter.

Celtic have four senior options in that position and O’Neill is reportedly satisfied with the depth available if he continues using only two central defenders.

That stance could change if injuries or poor performances create a problem before January, but it suggests Celtic intend to focus their resources elsewhere.

Improving the attack may carry greater urgency after their recent struggles in front of goal.

O’Neill needs more creativity, better movement and increased competition if Celtic are to challenge domestically while also recovering in Europe.

Jota’s progress following his long injury absence offers encouragement, but he will require time before he is ready to make a regular impact.

Sunday’s match will show whether the international break has helped Celtic regain their energy.

Returning to a back four is a sensible first step, but the shape alone will not solve everything.

Celtic must play with greater purpose against Motherwell and prove their dreadful week before the break was only a temporary collapse.