Neil Lennon says a clean sheet will be “imperative” for Celtic in their home clash against AIK.
The Hoops take on the Swedish champions in Glasgow on Thursday night knowing that a positive result is necessary for Europa League progression. But after shipping four goals in their last European outing to CFR Cluj, the pressure is on Lennon to deliver.
The pressure will also be on club captain Scott Brown, who Lennon confirmed would return to the team after sitting out Saturday’s extra-time win over Dunfermline.
“Obviously with away goals in mind too a clean sheet would be imperative tomorrow night,” Lennon told press at his pre-match conference. (Football Scotland)
“You make a valid point that we haven’t kept a clean sheet in a few games, and that is something that we want to work on.
“Going forward I’m delighted with the chances we’re creating, and scoring but obviously Brown will be back tomorrow night and he’ll play a pivotal role in making sure that he patrols in front of the back four.”
Lennon is right, Celtic need a good defensive display against AIK
Celtic should have enough to see off AIK over the course of two legs. However, the make-up of the tie and current malaise around the club could contribute to a tough opening leg.
Celtic Park will be pretty sparse for the fixture with many fans not turned on sufficiently by the Europa League. The atmosphere may be subdued to start off with but it will soon get loud if things aren’t going well.
The patience of the Hoops support is at an all time low at present and that makes Thursday’s clash a dangerous one. The opening goal will be vital for Lennon’s men to get. If they don’t things could turn very ugly, very quickly.
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