Celtc fans are enjoying Rangers' nightmare start under Derek McInnes, but Chris Sutton warns the upcoming Champions League play-off is no laughing matter – especially after selling Arne Engels before the LASK clash.
After a summer of discontent, the mood at Parkhead has lifted with new signings and decent results. With Rangers in disarray, all seems well in the East End of Glasgow.
Sutton's Concerns Over Engels Departure
Sutton admits he expects accusations of doom-mongering but remains concerned about the European tie. He cannot understand why Celtic are letting one of their best players leave on the eve of a crucial game, calling it "just DUMB."
He acknowledges the financial aspect and West Ham's interest, but insists Celtic should prioritize themselves. Engels' display at Rugby Park showed his value – his energy, drive, and physicality are hard to replace.
Mika Baur is a different profile, more technical and less physical, and throwing him straight into such a big match is a risk. Baur's deeper role could also shift Callum McGregor, a major change at a critical stage.
Recruitment Timing and LASK Threat
While fans are thrilled with Baur and Haissem Hassan, Sutton wishes they had arrived earlier. He understands recruitment challenges but believes everything should have been geared for this tie, which is not a formality.
LASK, though not a big name, finished champions above RB Salzburg and will be no pushovers. With Alistair Johnston out, Celtic need trusted players.
Positives and New Signings
Sutton sees positives, praising Celtic's performance against Kilmarnock and Kasper Hogh's hat-trick. He likes Hogh's movement and finishing, and Camilo Duran's promise, though he notes Duran was helped by Johnston's overlapping runs.
Hassan is an exciting signing, tracked since before the World Cup, and impressed Sutton in Egypt's win over Australia. His stats at a struggling La Liga side are unfair, and he should thrive with Celtic.
However, Sutton believes Celtic still need more. Baur may replace Reo Hatate, and the midfield will be light if Engels leaves. The signings are not finished articles but have experience. Yet, keeping Engels for the play-off would have been the smart move.
