Martin O'Neill has called on his Celtic players to use the pain of defeat to Rangers as motivation.
The Celtic manager believes setbacks should "hurt a lot" as his side aims to bounce back, both in Europe and domestically.
Reflecting on Sunday's 3-0 disappointment at Ibrox, O'Neill stressed the importance of channelling emotions positively. He said: "We've had the setback on Sunday, something that you have to, first of all, look at it. Then you have to hurt a bit. You have to hurt a lot, I think.
"That's the way that I spent my career. I probably overindulged in the hurting aspect of the game, but the games have to hurt you both as a player and as a manager.
"After that, then you go and rise above it again. That defines you as much as anything else."
With key fixtures approaching, O'Neill urged his squad to focus on improvement in preparation for an important run of matches.
Read more
-
WATCH in-form Celtic star make immediate impact as title defence begins
-
Why commencing our world tour at Celtic Park is an absolute 'no-brainer'
-
Celtic star earns first Scotland call-up, joins teammate and summer exit in squad
He added: "A big game coming up on Thursday, a big, big game on Sunday, then an international break, and it gives you a chance for the non-international players to take stock of what's happened and say, well, listen, what can I do?
"What can I do better? What can I do now to help the team? What can I do to help myself? Obviously, if you can do those things, then you're going to help the club."
Before discussing football matters, O'Neill paid tribute to Celtic great Danny McGrain following the revelation of the former Scotland captain's Alzheimer's diagnosis.
The Irishman worked with McGrain during his first spell at the club and described him as one of Celtic's finest servants. He said: "Danny was here at Celtic working with the reserves when I came here in my first spell, but just a phenomenal footballer and a really great character."
The manager also praised McGrain's impact on the pitch, highlighting his attacking qualities as well as his defensive ability. He said: "He was just a brilliant player, a great defender, and certainly going forward, he could cause havoc."
Looking ahead to Celtic's upcoming European assignment, O'Neill admits securing a positive result would provide a welcome boost. He said: "It'd be nice to get off to a decent start. It won't be easy. Nothing is, I don't think. Nor should it be, really.
"At the end of the day, it's a European game. Hopefully, we can be up for the game and be ready for the game and then after that, you can concentrate then on Sunday."
