CFR Cluj 1 v 1 Celtic

A very good result last night, the key was always going to be not to lose the game and if possible grab an away goal. We managed both and although I felt we did enough first half to actually take a lead into half time, we survived the 2nd half where Cluj as expected cranked up the pressure.

First half we played some nice stuff and I was relatively pleased with how we were breaking the lines, my biggest concern was the counter attack and ultimately that’s what cost us. It’s actually a decent move from Cluj but there’s a few things we’ve got to do better. First off, Forrest’s dig Then Morgan absolutely sheidts himself and loses the ball deep in their half and then Boli got caught ball watching.

You know what though, once again they responded in the correct manner and we genuinely look capable of scoring at any point in games which is the most pleasing aspect.

A few standouts last night, thought Jozo and Ajer were very good, Forrest was brilliant but my MOTM was El Hammed. What a find btw, pace, power, times his tackle well and he’s very, very comfortable on the ball. Didn’t panic at all last night and that’s so key away from home in Europe. Looks an absolute bargain at £1.3 million.

Unfortunately someone who wasn’t a bargain was Boli Camara, yes, we have indeed signed the Belgian mo. Jesus Christ he was horrifying last night, given he’s had a few shaky starts before last night I’m extremely concerned we’ve blew £3 million on a donkey. Another left back is absolutely needed pronto.

Obviously the night ended on a bit of a sour note with the news that a fee has finally been agreed with Arsenal for KT. £22 million up front, £3 million in add on’s and a 15% sell on clause. It’s a good deal for Celtic, a good deal for Arsenal and KT will be on around £75K a week. I’d have loved to have seen him stay and honestly thought he would for another year or two but I can understand him moving now. His injury problems are well documented and he might never get the chance again.

It also looks like Scott Sinclair will today sign for a Championship club down south. A wonderful signing but the time is right, he’s deteriorated big time the last 18 months and although he did score a few goals last season, you’re kidding yourself if you think he was an important player.

Probably best part of £25 million in the bank today and should we beat Cluj on Tuesday then European football is also guaranteed so there’s absolutely no excuses for us to go and spend some serious cash to improve the squad. We’re still 2 or 3 quality players short and hopefully these funds will now allow Lennon to bring that in.

Onto Saturday now in what will be a tough game but 3 points a must

NNH