Celtic’s schedule for the rest of the season has been lightened after their dramatic Euro exit.
Brendan Rodgers’ side had a stunning Champions League campaign but it ended in heartbreak after Bayern Munich’s stoppage time equaliser in Germany knocked the Hoops out on aggregate.
It was a disappointing end to what was a strong season among Europe’s elite clubs where the revamped layout seemed to work in the Scottish giants’ favour.
A 3-1 win over RB Leipzig was followed by points away at Atalanta and Dinamo while Celtic also beat Young Boys and held Club Brugge to a 1-1 draw. There was also the opening night mauling of Slovan Bratislava at Celtic Park.
That it ended in such circumstances at the Allianz Arena showed the progress made by Rodgers’ troops and that there can be big nights down the line again.
- READ MORE: Brendan Rodgers’ all-time Celtic record vs Rangers including historic Ibrox Glasgow Derby demolition
Jamie O’Hara defends Celtic after Rangers fan jibe
So when one Rangers fan attempted to rub elimination in their rivals’ face before this weekend’s Glasgow derby, it was a bit of a shock to hear big-mouth pundit Jamie O’Hara leaping to Celtic’s defence.
O’Hara has dished out plenty of criticism over the years but when a talkSPORT caller tried to belittle Celts after his own side had knocked Fenerbahce out of the Europa League on penalties, O’Hara wasn’t having it.
The caller said: “Rangers are the team that are doing it in Europe – not Celtic.”
To which the former Tottenham and Wolves midfielder responded: “You had to get that dig in, didn’t you?
“Oh come on, mate, give credit where it’s due – Celtic haven’t half done well in the Champions League, they’ve qualified.”
| vs Slovan Bratislava – 5-1 |
| vs Borussia Dortmund – 1-7 |
| vs Atalanta – 0-0 |
| vs RB Leipzig 3-1 |
| vs Club Brugge – 1-1 |
| vs Dinamo – 0-0 |
| vs Young Boys – 1-0 |
| vs Aston Villa – 2-4 |
| vs Bayern Munich 1-2 |
| vs Bayern Munich 1-1 |
Celtic’s Champions League record this season has impressed
It was a moment of clarity from O’Hara who has, at times, defended Celts from loud-mouth pundit and pal Jason Cundy.
Celtic’s Champions League campaign was impressive and they quite rightly received plenty of plaudits for their efforts.
Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer applauded Celtic for their time in the competition while others followed suit.
Daizen Maeda also equaled a long-standing record for Celts in the tournament with his goals tally.
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