New Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou knows that pundits will be lining up to criticise him if the Bhoys don’t progress against FC Midtjylland in the UEFA Champions League.
Given he has only just arrived in the country, has a decimated squad low on morale and faces a team from the Champions League group stage last year, victory against the Danes is a tall order.
In fact, there’s a strong argument for not blaming Postecoglou at all if we crash into the Europa League qualifiers rather than progress into the third qualifying round.
That was put to the new Celtic boss this weekend by The Scottish Mail on Sunday [27/05 print edition, back page].
However, Postecoglou is aware of the realities of his situation. He recognises people are waiting to be critical of him after the opening competitive fixtures of the season.
He said: “Irrespective of whether it’s too much to expect, people still expect. It doesn’t matter what I think, other people will always measure it in their own way.
“I am sure there will be plenty of people looking for that first game for us to be playing fantastic football and playing people off the park. If we don’t, they are going to be critical of me. What I want to do is make sure we are prepared for that game.
“It’s going to be a challenge. They (Midtjylland) are a good side. They had a good Champions League run. I have followed them for years because they’ve had a couple of Australian lads in their team.
“It’s a hell of a challenge for us, but that’s why I’m here. I have three-and-a-half weeks to prepare and every day is going to be important.”
Another good answer from Ange Postecoglou
It’s a strong response. Postecoglou isn’t daft, nor is he naive. Although he’s only just arrived in Europe in a professional capacity, you get the sense he’s been around the block a bit.
I’m starting to think the media glare awaiting him isn’t going to phase him at all. At least initially. There are massive pressures that come with the Celtic job, but the new boss is ready to meet them head on.
He’s not hiding from the challenge. Right now, that’s good enough for me.
In other news, Boli Bolingoli in line for permanent Celtic exit as new club shows interest.
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