Celtic played woefully in a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Kilmarnock on Sunday afternoon. The Bhoys crashed out of the Viaplay Cup in only the second round with the result.

Captain Callum McGregor described the loss as a ‘learning curve’ that his team must improve upon. The Scotland international also made some worrying claims about the Hoops’ play style towards the end of the match.

McGregor stated that Celtic began to resort to playing several long balls. He said (Football Scotland): “We started hitting long passes, which is not us. I don’t mean good passes in terms of trying to play in behind, it was just sort of launching the ball and hoping for the best. That’s disappointing, that we don’t stick to the principles that we know work for us. It is surprising and disappointing at the same time.”

McGregor Celtic
5th March 2023; St Mirren Park, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland, Scottish Premiership Football, St Mirren versus Celtic; Callum McGregor of Celtic

Clearly, in their desperation, the Bhoys started playing in a manner that was not characteristic of a Celtic team. Last season, principles were kept to no matter the scoreline and the majority of the time, the champions got what they needed.

However, the team is going through a slight transition with the managerial change. Despite this, there are no excuses for Sunday and going forward, answers need to be given for the types of questions Brendan Rodgers’ men will be asked.

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