‘I have to hold my hands up’ – Neil Lennon’s Surprising Club Brugge Admission

Former Celtic manager Neil Lennon thinks Club Brugge are the best side he’s seen at Parkhead this year, admitting that the Belgian champions took him by surprise.

From the off, Nicky Hayen’s men caught the eye. They adeptly played through the Hoops’ press and effectively pinned the Bhoys back.

Although their opening goal on 26 minutes was a gift from Cameron Carter-Vickers, one cannot say it wasn’t deserved.

Celtic went in rightfully behind at the break, and they needed a response in the second 45. It came through Daizen Maeda, who, after a sharp turn, expertly found the far corner of Simon Mignolet’s goal.

The sides couldn’t be separated in the closing stages and had to settle for a point apiece.

Post-match, while Lennon was disappointed with his old team’s performance, he couldn’t ignore how well Brugge performed: “I have to hold my hands up and say Brugge really surprised me,” admitted the ex-Celtic gaffer (TNT Sports via RecordSport).

“I thought they were really impressive. The way they played, they were so brave, and they kept the crowd quiet for long periods of the Game. I have to say, they are the best side I’ve seen at Celtic Park this year.”

Anyone who researched Brugge pre-match will know that Celtic wouldn’t have an easy time last night.

The Belgians are vastly experienced in the Champions League, and from the position they were in at the break, Brendan Rodgers’ men did well to earn a point.

They can now turn their attention back to domestic matters and Ross County’s visit to Glasgow’s east end this Saturday afternoon. Pittodrie then beckons next Wednesday as the fixtures continue to pile up.