Former Celtic striker and outspoken pundit Chris Sutton seemed as disappointed as anyone last night to see Neil Lennon’s team crash out of Europe.
The BT Sport man was pretty subdued on commentary towards the end of last night’s encounter and didn’t miss with his criticism, describing the defeat as a reality check.
He did, however, lighten the mood somewhat a little later on, suggesting he was especially disappointed with both Celtic’s and Arsenal’s exit because he was sure Lennon’s Bhoys would beat them in the next round.
The former Hoops hero is likely having a bit of fun here, perhaps noting that the Gunners’ defeat to Olympiakos at the Emirates was comparatively worse than ours last night.
They had held a one-goal advantage heading into the encounter but lost 2-1 on the night and ultimately on away goals.
For Celtic the European dream is over and there’ll be no testing ourselves against Arsenal, the Greek side or anyone else.
St Johnstone are on the immediate horizon, with a complete re-focus on domestic challenges ahead and another treble tantalisingly in sight.
Lennon’s team travel to Perth on Sunday to face Tommy Wright’s side in the quarter-final of the Scottish Cup.
Victory in that one guarantees another Hampden date where, as we know, anything can happen.
Given our record in cup competitions in recent seasons we’re massive favourites.
Unbelievably Celtic have won the last 33 cup matches in succession. It’s a run that stretches all the way back to 2016.
There hasn’t been a team able to stop us. Our recent record at McDiarmid Park would suggest that record is about to be stretched to 34.
Our last six matches there have resulted in victory, scoring 21 goals and conceding just two. The last five have seen the defence keep a clean sheet.
Wright’s team, however, will be more than aware of our vulnerability following last night’s European defeat however and a tough match is in store.
Hopefully, Lennon’s Bhoys can show everyone there’s no European hangover.
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