Cards on the table, I don’t mind Celtic players getting criticised. I also don’t mind them being called out for poor performances either.
But only when it is justified.
For example, Reo Hatate didn’t have his best game against Shakthar Donetsk last week and it was his mistake that led to their equaliser. Criticism justified.
Kyogo missed a sitter and was largely anonymous in that match (albeit he wasn’t playing his natural position under Postecoglou). Again, criticism justified.
But I’m not having this from Hugh Keevins.
Taking aim at Celtic defenders, Moritz Jenz and Cameron Carter-Vickers on Clyde 1 Superscoreboard, Keevins said, “Each gave away a daft penalty against Hearts [Carter-Vickers & Jenz].
“Neither looked convincing against Shakthar Donetsk.
“Remember, if Shakthar had taken the easiest chance of 2022 then.”
At that point, Gordon Duncan intervened and said, “Is that their fault really? I know it’s easy to talk about centre-backs, what part did those two really play in that?”
Keevins replied, “No, but it’s all about perception. If that is scored and it’s a 2-1 home defeat then you view everything in a different light.”
Really? At what point in the Shakthar game did Jenz and Carter Vickers look ‘unconvincing’?
I never felt at any point either CCV or Jenz looked uncomfortable in that match.
Even looking at the stats, Jenz was rated 7.2 with a 90% pass completion and CCV 6.8 with an astounding 100% pass completion [SofaScore].
And if you take a look at UEFA’s website, overall in the competition, Jenz is rated 22nd in ball recovery and 31st for tackles and CCV 13th for distribution with a 96% pass rate.
Does that scream ‘unconvincing’ to you?
It’s little wonder Celtic fans have little time for these pundit’s opinions as they are barely researched or thought through and just blurted out for the sake of conversation.
Maybe one day, that will change but until then, I guess fan media will do the groundwork whilst guys like Keevins pick up a paycheck for spouting such nonsense.
“Cars on the table…”
That’s a helluva strong table you’ve got there Paddy!
Generic “Keevins is a walloper” comment….all that needs saying really….
Haha. Just seen that!
Is that the same Hugh Keevins who types w ords for the daily Record ?! A Kharsi roll masquerading as a national newspaper ! Having a’ never has been’ as a critic or a lecturer just proves how far real journalism has fallen in this country .If the stuff was constructive ,fair do’s .That mob at the Record have some crust being critical , considering their track record ! Excuse the pun .
All I can say is Thank God Ange is the manager and not Keevins.