Strength in depth and a ferocious press may help European adventures to have competitive relevance once more
Celtic ’s Callum McGregor celebrates their 5-1 victory over Slovan Bratislava the Uefa Champions League at Celtic Park. Photograph: Andrew Milligan/PAformat has capacity to bruise egos. Few teams finishing bottom of a section of four are likely to invite ridicule. Coming 36th out of 36th, or anywhere close to the foot of this expanded section, will be optically embarrassing.have realised their domination in Scotland is – save wild mistakes, or a revolution across the city – virtually guaranteed.
“Sometimes I think at this level, people can dress it up and think because you’re playing in the Champions League that you might have to do something different,” Rodgers said. “You don’t. For us it was really important not to complicate things. These are big ‘belief’ games and it’s been really difficult over a long period of time for Celtic at this level.
That midfield, also including Callum McGregor and either Reo Hatate or Paulo Bernardo, is Celtic’s strongest suit. Kasper Schmeichel should be an upgrade on Joe Hart in goal. The displays of less-heralded players, namely Liam Scales and Greg Taylor, have improved since a summer transfer window which brought the arrival of stiff challengers for their positions. Celtic’s strength in depth is suddenly striking. O’Riley’s departure has barely been noticed.
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