John Hartson believes that Leigh Griffiths’ goal against Astana could be priceless for Celtic.
Trailing 1-0 with 13 minutes left to play the former Hibs striker netted from 16 yards following some determined play by Patrick Roberts down the right.
Astana looked no more than organised and competent during the 90 minutes with Celtic having the chance to go through in front of their own supporters.
Following the match Hartson tweeted: “Celtic have to be happy with today’s result.. Away goal could be crucial, difficult surface long journey all factors to take in.”
Celtic have to be happy with today’s result.. Away goal could be crucial, difficult surface long journey all factors to take in. ????????????
— John Hartson (@JohnHartson10) July 27, 2016
His former team-mate Chris Sutton was thinking along similar lines, he tweeted: “Well dug in! Leigh Griffiths wallop stunning! Gordon stinker for goal. Bullied in 1st half. Subs good. Job done but still work to do.”
Hartson and Sutton were key members of Martin O’Neill’s squad that took Celtic all the way to the UEFA Cup Final in Seville during the 2002/03 season.
Along that route Hartson scored memorable away goals at Celta Vigo and Liverpool while Sutton scored on his return to Ewood Park as Celtic beat Blackburn Rovers 2-0.
As pundits both men have attracted their fair share of criticism from Celtic fans with the managerial record of Ronny Deila causing most of the grief.
From the very early stages Sutton and Hartson voiced their concerns about the Norwegian followed by some blunt opinions about the performances over the last two seasons.
With Rodgers showing the ability to vary his tactics and imaginative use of substitutes the former Celtic strike pairing could have reasons to be cheerfull in the season ahead.