Celtic have found an unexpected supporter in Derek McInnes, who this week lashed out at critics following the club’s recent Champions League performances.
The Hoops delivered a stunning 3-0 victory over RB Leipzig on Tuesday night, putting them on the brink of securing a play-off spot.
It was a much-needed response after a bruising 4-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund, which had sparked widespread criticism in the Scottish media.
Celtic’s European credentials, along with the reputation of Scottish football, were called into question, but McInnes has taken exception to the harsh judgments.
McInnes Backs Celtic’s European Progress
Speaking ahead of his Kilmarnock side’s clash with Celtic at Rugby Park, McInnes hit back at the naysayers.
“On Tuesday night, they looked like a mature team at that level,” he told the Daily Record. “Everyone was so damning in the fallout from their defeat to Borussia Dortmund.
“They were damning on Celtic, Brendan and Scottish football. People who should probably know better said Celtic couldn’t compete with the top Bundesliga teams. But they got a brilliant result against Leipzig, so it can be done.
“Their performance was very good and a really good reference for Brendan and his team. It was a top-level performance and expectations have been raised there because investment was made in the team for Europe.”
McInnes also warned that today’s domestic test would be no walk in the park for Celtic, despite their European high.
“It was a good night for them, so they’ll come here in good form on Sunday. Brendan’s a top operator and has shown that for years now. He’ll have taken a lot of pleasure from that result – but he’ll also recognise that it will be different here at Rugby Park. He’ll know what to expect.”
Rodgers Prepares for Kilmarnock Challenge
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has no fresh injury concerns as his team travels to Kilmarnock. Both Auston Trusty and Cameron Carter-Vickers sat out training after their midweek exploits, but Rodgers confirmed their absences were precautionary.
Kilmarnock, currently eighth in the Scottish Premiership, are eyeing a move into the top six with a win. Meanwhile, Rodgers knows his side must secure maximum points to reclaim top spot after Aberdeen’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Dundee last night.
It promises to be a stern test for Celtic as they look to maintain momentum both domestically and in Europe.