Strange, embarrassing tie overall- Sky Sports reporter gives his Bodo verdict

Anthony Joseph was left as puzzled and deflated as any Celtic fan as the hoops crashed out of the Europa Conference on a 5-1 aggregate to Bodo Glimt. 

When the draw was made, back in December on the back of three wins in a respectable Europa League group facing the Norwegian champions appeared a great opportunity for the new look Celtic side to progress and test themselves. 

Whatever the circumstances the verdict over 180 minutes is that Celtic are still miles short of where the club should realistically expect to be in Europe. 

The tie wasn’t dead last week – especially with no away goal rule. Celtic’s team selection was strange & they got what they were asking for tonight. Embarrassing tie overall. Context is important, though – Ange Postecoglou is building for a greater good & the signs are there.

— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) February 24, 2022

Sure Kyogo Furuhashi, Jota and possibly Reo Hatate could make a difference but only the Portuguese winger has been a regular this season and his return for European action next season isn’t guaranteed. 

The aim now, over 11 SPFL matches is to win the title and with it a place in the group stage of the Champions League. 

At the moment the squad looks badly under-strength to meet that challenge, in their last two campaigns at elite level there were some serious beatings despite having Brendan Rodgers in charge. 

Celtic’s next European matches might be as far away as seven months- time that the club needs to use wisely by giving Ange Postecoglou backing in every area.