Celtic rounded off their pre-season tour of the United States in style with a thumping 4-1 victory over Chelsea in Indiana.
On a day when the Bhoys consistently penetrated Enzo Maresca’s high line, Matt O’Riley, Kyogo Furuhashi, Luis Palma and Mikey Johnston made sure of a confidence-boosting triumph that Christopher Nkunku’s late consolation couldn’t bitter.
Facing Premier League opposition always comes with an added edge for Celtic. Not only is there a cross-border aspect to consider, but these matches are also a chance to show the Bhoys can compete against the elite riches of the English top flight.
Either way, Stephen Welsh has shared how he and his teammates are feeling after emerging from their clash against the West Londoners with a majorly positive result.
Stephen Welsh on Celtic demolition against Chelsea
Speaking after the affair, Welsh has shared that he and his Celtic teammates are understandably ‘delighted’ with their level of application that led to a handsome win over Chelsea.
He stated [Celtic FC]: “I think the performance today was unbelievable from the boys. We really built on the first two games. They were great, but the performance of the tour was today (Saturday)
“At times, we played them off the pitch; we were so much more organised. Defensively, the pressing, the aggression, we were much better than Chelsea.
“We deserved the win. We probably could have scored another couple of goals. We were disappointed to concede a goal with the penalty at the end, but all in all, we’re delighted with the performance today.”
Welsh then previewed the Bhoys’ Scottish Premiership opener against Kilmarnock this Sunday, adding: “The training, in general, has been at a really high level. It’s been tough because of the heat. The standard of the boys coming back in has been exceptional.
“Hopefully we can kick on to next Sunday now and put in another good performance.”
Celtic gear up for Kilmarnock test
Flag Day will soon be upon us this Sunday, and Kilmarnock will arrive at Parkhead three days after the conclusion of their Europa Conference League second qualifying round tie against Cercle Brugge.
Derek McInnes led his side to a 1-1 draw against the Jupiler Pro League side last Thursday, with the hosts unlucky not to take a lead over to mainland Europe after a spirited display at Rugby Park.
Undoubtedly, the Ayrshire outfit will present a stiff test on the opening weekend of the league season for Celtic. Nevertheless, the Hoops’ pre-season preparations should stand them in good stead to try and claim three points.
In addition, the hope of one or two new arrivals before then looms. Paulo Bernardo could well come in from Benfica this week. The question is, could anyone else join him in time for Sunday? Time will tell.
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