Chris Sutton has insisted Celtic are too big to write off this season’s Europa League campaign and has backed misfiring striker Kasper Hogh to deliver on the big stage against Benfica. The former Parkhead frontman believes a strong performance in Lisbon on Thursday night can help manager Martin O’Neill speed up the side’s recovery from a run of three consecutive defeats.
Sutton dismisses domestic focus claims
Sutton has dismissed any suggestion that the Scottish champions should focus on retaining their domestic crown rather than be distracted by their European travels. He believes the £11m signing can still make an impact in Portugal, despite the Dane scoring in just one of his last 17 games for club and country.
Sutton said: “Hogh is a team player, though, and that is not necessarily a bad thing. I am not nearly as down on him as some people seem to be.”
Confidence in Hogh’s pedigree
“I watched him terrorise Champions League defences at Bodo/Glimt, including when he scored that brilliant brace against Manchester City. One finish was a terrific header at the back post and the other showed the composure of a confident striker.”
“There’s a balance to strike between giving him time and demanding more. I’d stick with him against Benfica because a run of games can help any striker build the understanding and consistency he needs.”
Europe key to changing mood
Sutton added: “Martin has spoken about the importance of winning the title but if Celtic are going to change the mood around the club, they need to start producing in Europe as well.”
“There’s no doubt that Celtic have a point to prove in Europe - and so does Hogh in a green and white jersey. One goal can change everything for a striker, and Lisbon would be a good place to start.”
