The worst defence in Europe. Think about that for a second. The worst defence in Europe. Well European competitions but still, it’s a shocking statistic when you consider where we were this time last year and the teams that are currently participating in the Europa League.
December 2019, Celtic had already qualified by this stage after defeating Lazio 2-1 at the Stadio Olympico. Such was Celtic’s form in Europe last season, we had qualified with two games to spare and seemingly looking unbeatable. Fast forward twelve months and we are now the laughing stock of European football.
Worst defence in European competition. Even saying it I shake my head in disbelief. Let’s take the Chamipions League out the equation for the moment and focus on the teams currently participating in the Europa League.
Dundalk Fc: Played five, lost five and have a goal difference of -9.
Omonia FC: Played five, won 1, drew 1 lost 3 and a goal difference of +4.
Rijeka: Played five, drew one lost 4 and goal difference -7
I could go on but have a look here at the current Europa League standings and the stats will leave you wondering where it all went wrong?
Eight players that played that night in Rome where in the team against AC Milan last night. Against Lazio, from the back four Ajer, Bitton and Elhamed, and midfield saw Christie, Brown and McGregor and N’tcham with Edouard up front on his own. The nucleus of the team that defeated Lazio in their own backyard where all there. The manager and assistant manager is still the same form that night so why such a contrast in performances from that season to now?
Lennon needs to find out answers and quickly as the games come thick and fast over the festive period. He will not want that European defensive form to find it’s way to the domestic game, although many may say it already has.