Celtic fans here in the Tavern are frustrated after the weekend’s 1-1 draw in the Scottish Premier League, a result that allowed their Old Firm rivals to close the gap on first position.
Indeed, Brendan Rodgers has been able to construct a Celtic legacy that very few will ever manage to replicate at Celtic Park, with a 69-game unbeaten streak one of the notable achievements secured during his time in Scotland. And, that’s not to mention the four trophies that he’s already accumulated during his time in Glasgow, as the trophy cabinet will forever be filled while this man is in charge.
However, one notable improvement to be made by the Hoops is in the form of their European quality, as this season has seen them blasted out of the Champions League group stage. Indeed, the poor performances have seen them drop down to the knockout stages of the Europa League, with a 1-0 win against Zenit St Petersburg being the outcome in their first taste of the competition.
Although, it wasn’t all positives to take away from Thursday night’s encounter, with a tight 1-0 victory meaning that it’s still all to play for in Russia. So, here’s a look at TWO regulars that Brendan Rodgers should look to drop in the return leg…
James Forrest
The 26-year-old has been one of the star performers this season for the Hoops, as his trickery and pace continues to cause defenders all sorts of problems. Although, after a disappointing showing in the Champions League this season, Rodgers will be hoping that James Forrest can carry his recent league form into the Europa League.
However, in the first-leg against Russian giants Zenit St Petersburg the winger didn’t have the biggest of impacts, as he managed to squander a couple of opportunities that could have easily put the tie to bed. And, after seeing Charly Musonda brought on to assist the Callum McGregor goal, it looks as if he may lose his spot to the Chelsea loanee.
Jozo Simunovic
The 23-year-old has been a defensive dynamite for the Hoops so far this campaign, with the opposing attackers failing to bypass his efforts on many occasions.
However, against Zenit in Thursday’s match at Celtic Park he was one of the underperformers in the side, after displaying a careless approach in possession and had to be bailed out by his teammates on a couple of occasions.
Therefore, youngster Jack Hendry could be blessed with a start in the second-leg, as defending their one goal advantage becomes a huge task in front of a hostile Russian crowd.
