Celtic European Watch: Brugge Boss Tells Players They Have an ‘Attitude problem’

Club Brugge manager Nicky Hayen has told his players they have a problem with their attitudes after they drew 2-2 with Beerschot at the weekend despite leading by two goals to nil at the break.

The Belgian champions are Celtic’s next opponents in the UEFA Champions League and are due to visit Parkhead in just over a fortnight.

They were in the comfort zone 15 minutes into their league Game on Sunday, although goals from Romeo Vermant and Joaquin Seys drew Beerschot level before the hour mark.

Indeed, a quick-fire double from Marwan Al Sahafi got the hosts back on level terms, much to the disbelief of Brugge gaffer Hayen.

Despite his side’s attempt to find a winner in the last half an hour, they faltered and came away with just a point.

Post-match, the 44-year-old wasn’t shy to criticise his players, slamming their efforts.

He said [RecordSport]: “We clearly have an attitude problem. We were two goals up and it seemed like it was too easy. We woke up again when they made it 2-2, but it was too late.

“And we shot ourselves in the foot. It’s not the first time this season we have taken our foot off the gas pedal. I made it very clear at the break not to take it easy, but that’s exactly what they did. There’s a problem with the players’ attitude.”

Although they have been widely criticised for their antics on Sunday, Celtic shouldn’t underestimate the Belgian champions’ threat.

From their opening four Champions League Games this campaign, Brugge have six points, thanks to 1-0 wins over Sturm Graz and Aston Villa.

The matchday five clash in Glasgow’s east end will be enticing. Going by Opta stats, Celtic know a win would all but secure their place in the top 24 of the league phase. In the opposition camp, Brugge Gaffer Hayen will want his players’ attitudes to be much better than they were a few days ago.