With seven points from three matches Celtic are in a very powerful position to qualify for the next stage of the Europa League but as ever there are complications in how the group could work out.
Unlike last year when it took a late equaliser from Rosenborg’s Tore Reginiussen away to RB Leipzig to seal qualification with nine points this time around it is very much in the bhoys hands.
Nine points were enough to see Celtic through a year ago but there is a scenario in which they could take 10 points and fail to progress into the knock out stage.
With just one point from three matches Rennes appear to be the weakest link which shifts emphasis onto the three-way fight between Celtic, Cluj and Lazio.
If Celtic win at home to Rennes but lose away to Lazio and Cluj the hoops would be on 10 points with the Italian and Romanian sides capable of taking 12 points.
What Celtic need to do to ensure qualification is to beat Rennes at home next month and take a point away to Lazio or Cluj, something that they look well capable of achieving.
There are still a number of permutations from the group, after the next round of matches things will be fairly clear-cut but at the halfway stage Neil Lennon’s side could hardly be in a stronger position.
Enjoy some legal highlights HHAIL HHAILhttps://t.co/K6XmHIrC07
— Joe McHugh (@videocelts) October 24, 2019