Gordon Strachan has issued a typically direct reminder to Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers. The Irishman returned to the Scottish Champions in the middle of the June, replacing Ange Postecoglou.
Strachan told Genting Casino that Rodgers had to recognise that domestic dominance was the bread and butter for Celtic, whilst European success will help push the club’s profile.
“There can only be one objective: to win the league. That’s what makes every fan feel good – you just want to be more superior than your rivals.
“When the season finished, and there were three trophies in the cabinet, no Celtic fans were thinking about not getting out of the Champions League group stage. I appreciate that if the club wants to be taken really seriously, then success in the Champions League would certainly help with that.
“I think success for Celtic is getting out of the group stage of the Champions League. That would be a phenomenal achievement when you consider the standard that they are coming up against.”
GLASGOW, UNITED KINGDOM – OCTOBER 03: Arthur Boruc of Celtic shakes hand with Gordon Strachan at the final whistle of the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic and AC Milan at Celtic Park October 3, 2007 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)
Rodgers reached the Group Stages of the UEFA Champions League on two occasions but was beaten twice in the Last 32 of the Europa League. However, he stated that he was impressed and aligned with the club’s vision for success in European competition.
Strachan reached the Last 16 of the Champions League on two occasions, narrowly being defeated by AC Milan and Barcelona. Neil Lennon’s side were the next (and last) to reach the Last 16 in 2012/13.