Celtic fans were split down the middle by the overnight exchange between Craig Gordon and Chris Sutton.
In the style of the best playground ‘debates’ the phrase ‘he started it’ was quickly followed by ‘no he never’.
As a pundit Sutton’s independence is a breath of fresh air in Scottish football where most deflect away from criticism for fear of upsetting an old pal or waiting to get back into the management circuit.
Two years ago the former hoops striker was far from popular with Celtic fans as he continually criticised Ronny Deila, with hindsight criticism from ‘within’ was no bad thing as the limitations of the Norwegian were highlighted and debated.
As he was drawn into the debate it’s unlikely that Gordon had a full grasp of the detail. Sure Sutton has been critical but he won’t cut off his nose to spite his face, if praise is due he’ll hand it out just as easily.
That attitude has made him BT Sport essential viewing for Celtic fans, if it’s wishy washy back-slapping that is required there are enough outlets for that style of punditry.
PRO SUTTON
Gordon is a good goalkeeper however he has glaring glaring faults and we can definetly do better. I’ve been a long time critic as well.
— brendan (@Itswayoverthere) September 20, 2017
he’s flattering himself to think you’d bother. He’s rarely under pressure– but when he is, Estana away etc, he makes really bad decisions.
— Mark Eglinton (@MarkEglinton) September 20, 2017
He either has an amazing game or a game full of howlers , there’s no in between with Gordon , we 100% need a new goal keeper.
— Scott (@ScottUTLR) September 20, 2017
Hes average and I hope we replace him in January. No trust in him
— Martin (@Cocopop1888) September 20, 2017
Craig Gordon’s distribution is #embarassing….cup final against Aberdeen was cringe worthy.Some1 has told him he’s a Brazilian midfielder!
— Matthew Fraser (@BocabocaFraser) September 20, 2017
Gordon’s a big boy, I’m sure he can handle it, he’s a good keeper but not infallible
— jhungle jhim ???????????? (@jhunglejhim) September 20, 2017
What’s Craig Gordon on about? It’s personal with @chris_sutton73 ? I’m not buying that. All Gordon has to do is stop making stupid mistakes!
— G (@GJS2010) September 20, 2017
PRO GORDON
Gets more stick than he merits. He had Efe in his defence and now bitton. I’d be nervous! Last week’s wonder save surly shows his class?
— Hoops Chat (@ChatHoops) September 20, 2017
Whether it’s personal or not, only you will know, CG done well for us. No one above criticism, but don’t think he merits singling out
— Andy (@AndyMcCrimmon) September 20, 2017
Everyone has their opinion but you seem to target him, no player is perfect as you may well remember. Be fair & quit writing for that rag ????
— ash (@missyblahblah) September 20, 2017
He’s not had a settled back 4 in front of him and as you keep saying we need a centre half
— PCM (@st_mullen) September 20, 2017
@chris_sutton73 love 2 hear what u would have had said to @Robert__Douglas in a dressing if ur slaughtering a record holding Celtic keeper
— Craig Campbell (@craigceltic83) September 20, 2017
Constructive honest criticism can be beneficial, but do keep in mind he is one of us and we are family. ????
— Rab © (@Rab_Gorbals) September 20, 2017
The problem for Craig is that he has 0 competition for his place. I think he is a very good keeper, but needs sum1 to keep him on his toes.
— Paul Campbell (@paulski1978) September 20, 2017
Has had a few gaffs but has had a good run overall. Don’t think wee need new keeper, as Conor hazard was outstanding for ds v hmfc #future
— Bear (@burns_bear) September 20, 2017
Agree with you on a lot Chris but think this is unfair. Made v few mistakes past 18 months and only Hapoel was potentially costly.
— Danny McGinley (@danmcgin) September 20, 2017