“They’ll get real credit” – Jackie McNamara Makes Celtic European Claim

As the new season approaches, Celtic fans remain optimistic about what lies ahead on all fronts.

Domestically, maintaining dominance remains key but challenging in Europe becomes an increasing priority each year.

2004 was the last time Celtic won a knockout tie in continental competition, but Brendan Rodgers will want to change that this time around.

The newly formatted Champions League looks as though it will provide the Scottish champions with an increased opportunity to progress in Europe. Jackie McNamara, somewhat controversially, thinks that if the Bhoys do so, it will be the only time they get real credit and that gaffer Rodgers needs it to truly prove his pedigree.

“I think we’ve got used to trebles over the years”, he said (BBC Scottish Football Podcast). 

“To crack Europe, that’s the only time that they’ll get real credit for doing for doing very well, the team, more importantly and Brendan.

“For Brendan, as well, his European record hasn’t been great and it’d be good for him to go and make his mark on that and take the club to the next level and that’s when I think he’ll get real recognition for what he’s done.”

Europe is somewhat of an enigma for Celtic with each passing season. It feels as though the Champions League or Europa League always throws up something out of the ordinary for the Hoops.

Whether it be red cards, penalties, own goals, or horrendous individual mistakes, the Bhoys always have to deal with outstanding issues.

Is the forthcoming campaign when things finally start to change? The Parkhead faithful will certainly hope so.