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Ally McCoist has delivered a damning verdict on Celtic’s current form on BT Sport following Thursday night’s Europa League defeat to AC Milan – hammering the Hoops defence for conceding four goals, again.
Celtic have now shipped 17 goals in their five Europa League matches – the worst in the competition, after another four conceded at the San Siro. It started brightly for Celtic, with Tom Rogic and Odsonne Edouard scoring early.
But Milan – who are top of Serie A at the moment – came roaring back. Hakan Calhanoglu scored a free-kick, before Samu Castillejo, Jens Petter Hauge and Brahim Diaz all netter. The latter scored with a delightful chip.
Neil Lennon is under enormous pressure and started with a back four, which combined Kris Ajer and Nir Bitton at centre-back. But the change in personnel failed to the trick and McCoist was more than honest in his verdict.
“Neil [Lennon] is right, in the first 20 minutes, they looked excellent and scored a couple of great goals – could have added a couple more. Christie forced a good save,” McCoist said on BT Sport.
TBR’s view – Where do Celtic go from here?
Although Thursday night’s game against Milan was a dead rubber, the pressure on Lennon will only intensify. The Northern Irish manager has now seen Celtic win just two of their last 11 league and cup matches.
The defensive problems remained against Milan, following eight goals shipped in two matches against Sparta Prague. It is now just one clean sheet in their last 11 league and cup matches.
Lennon is a Celtic legend, and has done enough to earn time. But with time at a premium as Celtic target 10 in a row, how much time can he be afforded? Celtic may feel they have to make a change soon to save 10.
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