There’s one constant that Celtic can always call upon- their support.
Three days after humiliating Sevco 5-1 seven thousand fans sat in the top tier of the Nou Camp watching their side crumble to Barcelona.
Leo Messi, Neymar, Iniesta and Luis Suarez were on the scoresheet offering a crumb of comfort to the travelling support who will be watching their side take on Alloa in seven days time.
Chris Sutton knows all about the travelling Celtic support from the Martin O’Neill years and watched last night’s action unfold from the BT Sports commentary box.
Always trying to put a positive spin on the night Sutton openly admits that he had no expectations of European football if Ronny Deila had stayed in charge.
The fans took a similar view but while some grumbled online about ‘another’ trip to Barcelona even after a 7-0 defeat the hoops support were in fine voice recognising the massive steps their team has taken in recent months.
Thousands of Celtic fans staying in ground and singing celebrating being here. Quite right. Perspective important ! Think back 5 months??????????
— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) September 13, 2016
One game, never was going to be easy Barca can do that to anyone! Clear the heads and move on. Massive step to get into group stage??????????
— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) September 13, 2016
Taking a similarly upbeat view Brendan Rodgers said: “This is a competition which is going to be a brilliant learning season for us. Tonight is one of those nights you have to take.
“There can be no embarrassment because they have done it to better teams than ourselves. It’s tough to take when you lose so many goals.
“They didn’t work any harder than our players, but the confidence, technique and ability to accept the ball under pressure are things you can learn.
“They are very special players. I had the great fortune to work with one of them and Luis was at his top level.
“We had five in the back line but their movement, speed and touch can make it very difficult for you. They are world-class players and showed it.
“You can’t be too downhearted. Whether you are playing Barcelona or Berwick Rangers, there is professional pride to play for. No team likes to lose like that but this won’t hamper us in any way.”
xxx