Former Premier League goalkeeper Paddy Kenny has backed Celtic for success in Europe next season thanks to a 'lucrative' summer spending spree.
The lowdown: UCL spot booked
Not only did the Hoops reclaim the Scottish top-flight with a 1-1 draw against Dundee United on Wednesday, but a place in the UEFA Champions League group stage in 2022/23 was also confirmed as a result.
Following an improved co-efficient status in Scotland, this term's league winners were granted an automatic spot in the groups, confirmed recently when Russian clubs were banned from participation in next season’s competitions.
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As the Bhoys prepare for a jaunt into the competition proper for the first time since 2017/18, one pundit has suggested a European adventure could be a real possibility.
The latest: 'Will be laughing'
Speaking to Football Insider, ex-Leeds United stopper Kenny claimed that the financial windfall will be a huge boost to Ange Postecoglou's summer plans, even if he just gets some of the £45m expected to come from UCL participation.
The 43-year-old explained: “£45million is a lot of money and if Postecoglou gets a lot of that to spend, he will be laughing.
“I’m sure he is delighted to win the two trophies but the poor form in Europe will need to be fixed next season. The club will take some of that prize money but you would hope the manager gets a bit to spend.
“With that kind of money, to that club, there is no reason they can’t do what Rangers have done in Europe. They won’t get to the Champions League final but we know how lucrative the latter stages of the Champions League can be.
“They have a great first 11 but they need a bit more depth to really push on and £25ish-million can give them that.”
The verdict: Exciting times
Once the rightfully unbridled celebrations have settled down, Postecoglou can look back and ahead with immense pride and anticipation about what is to come at Parkhead.
Having already proven to be an astute operator in the transfer market, the Hoops hierarchy will undoubtedly be willing to sanction further deals as the Greek-Australian boss plans to dominate domestically and at least compete on the continent.
So far Postecoglou has been responsible for such masterstrokes as Liel Abada, Carl Starfelt, Kyogo Furuhashi and Josip Juranovic for a combined £15.66million (Transfermarkt), all of whom have played a large part in helping the Hoops achieve title glory.
Success breeds success, particularly in the financial led world of elite football, and Celtic would be wise to jump on the money-spinning bandwagon whilst it's in town.
In other news, Kenny Dalglish hails Celtic man following title win. Find out who it is here.