Thankfully we’re still early enough in this Celtic project under Ange Postecoglou for last night not to be seen as a complete disaster. We don’t have to go through the kind of navel-gazing aftermath that is so tiring after poor results.
That’s not to say the performance against Bodo/Glimt wasn’t disappointing. It was. I felt Celtic had an opportunity to make their mark on the Conference League and, to put it politely, the players fluffed their lines.
I think Chris Sutton, known for quite hyperbolic takes, actually put it best on Twitter after the match.
He stated: “Bodo/Glimt superb tonight and deserved the win. Well done to them.
“Celtic, too many players not at the level and a disappointing display but maybe a bit of perspective needed.
“The team have come a long way this season. A good reminder that there is much work still to be done.”
I don’t see the 3-1 defeat as a defining moment for Postecoglou’s team. Not by a long shot.
Even disregarding the chance of a comeback next week, I don’t think Ange is being measured by European progress this season. We have to master domestic football first.
Obviously, long-term, we want Celtic to break through this knockout round barrier we seem to have found since 2004. That has to be the aim. But if it doesn’t happen this season then it’s not a massive indictment of the manager or this new group of players.
The progress from this time last year has been massive. We’re on the right track. Everyone needs to keep the head and ensure there are no distractions in the 12 remaining league games.
In other news, Photo: The Green Brigade unveil Ange Postecoglou display ahead of Celtic vs Bodo/Glimt.
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