Andy Halliday has offered a fair and measured assessment of Celtic following Motherwell’s dramatic 3-2 defeat at Parkhead, praising moments of quality but also criticising the lack of intensity that’s characterised much of the champions’ season so far.
It’s fair to say that Celtic have been quite slow and uninspiring so far this season, missing that creative spark that saw some really entertaining games last term.
While results have largely been positive, performances haven’t always followed suit. Celtic have drawn two games in the league this season, both ending 0-0.
The former Rangers and Hearts midfielder felt that Celtic’s best performance of the season came in one of those draws, when Celtic faced Hibs last week.
Speaking on Open Goal, the Motherwell midfielder, Andy Halliday, said:
“I think Celtic played some good stuff, to be fair. I think there are certain times they’re a bit maybe too passive. I always say Celtic at their best, it’s like quick, attacking, intense football. Do you know what I mean?”
“But I feel as if this far this season hasn’t clicked into gear in terms, it’s been quite passive. It’s been quite slow.”
“I actually think the best they’ve played this season was Hibs last week when they don’t win. I actually thought that game, I thought they were good. I thought they created loads of chances.”
While Halliday didn’t suggest Celtic were poor on Sunday, the Hoops are still searching for rhythm and sharpness in the final third.
The late winner against Motherwell was dramatic, and vital, but there’s still a clear sense that Rodgers’ side haven’t fully clicked.
With a huge month ahead after the international break, Celtic will need to find that gear and fast, if they’re to hold off a resurgent Hearts and meet expectations at home and in Europe.
