McAvennie amazed by ‘incomprehensible’ Celtic after what he has seen
Frank McAvennie has insisted the difference between the Celtic team this year compared to where they were last year is “incomprehensible”.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Hoops striker said the side’s display against Real Madrid was “incredible” and shows how much the team has developed in the last year.
Ange Postecoglou’s side were beaten 3-0 by Real Madrid in the opening game of the Champions League group stages on Tuesday (6 September).
As revealed by SofaScore (6 September), the Parkhead club had 10 shots during the game to Real’s 12.
The Hoops had four shots on target compared to the Spanish side’s six.
As quoted by the Daily Record (6 September), Postecoglou said his team created “really good” chances but failed to capitalise on the opportunities.
The Celts boss added that the team will learn from the inability to make the most out of their opportunities.
McAvennie insisted the performance was hugely significant, despite the scoreline.
“For an hour I was so proud of the boys, it was incredible,” he told Football Insider.
“It wasn’t a 3-0 game. [Carlo] Ancelotti came out and praised them and said it was great. There’s so much of a difference between this year and last year. Last year we were getting battered in Europe. This year, the pace, the energy that Celtic had was much better.
“The more games they get the fitter they’ll get. Once it slowed down [Luka] Modric and [Toni] Kroos came into their own. I thought the defence was looking good. When you’re pressing and pressing, they manage to exploit it. They’re not the best team in Europe for nothing. It was superb to watch.
“The Celtic fans know the difference between this year and last year is incomprehensible, it’s incredible. The fans showed they’re behind the team and for an hour it was a great game.“
In other news, Agbonlahor issues verdict on Matt O’Riley and Celtic teammate joining Premier League club after what he’s seen.