Celtic and Rangers struggling to avoid also-ran status in Europe

Even at their modern-day best, Celtic and Rangers are Europa League clubs stuck in the vortex of chasing Champions League paydays

STRUGGLE: Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has seen his side struggle in the Champions League this season. Pic: Jane Barlow/PA Wire

It does not take much to irritate Ange Postecoglou. Even in these times of domestic harmony at Celtic, the manager rails against the tiniest of perceived slights. One wonders about Postecoglou’s demeanour were the going genuinely tough.

Nonetheless, in respect of typical European analysis, Postecoglou has a point. He objects to Celtic being placed alongside other Scottish clubs when it comes to a dreadful Champions League, Europa League or Europa Conference League season thus far. Postecoglou is correct to highlight cliche. Celtic have been considerably more competitive than their compatriots.