Celtic's next Champions League opponents in trouble before Parkhead trip

It’s still early in the international break so Celtic fans are busy trying to find things to discuss. Perhaps Matt O’Riley being back in Celtic training gear or a hidden tennis talent to rival that of Andy Murray. Another week or so and we will all be back to normal and looking forward to the team in action once again.

The first match is a slightly odd one in terms of timing. Brendan Rodgers takes his side to Tyencvastle to face Hearts on Saturday, November 23. But look out for the unusual kick-off time of 19:45. Saturday night football is unusual but could be a big thing going forward. 

Although Rodgers and the squad are always keen to focus on one game at a time, the Champions League match is taking on a new twist. Club Brugge have got off to a decent start there and defeated Aston Villa 0-1 in Birmingham in their last game in the competition. Their goal may have come from a penalty, but they deserved the win. 

The Belgian side seems to be in some trouble off the pitch though. An underwhelming start in the league has led to almost everyone weighing in with an opinion of the team. The latest result saw Club Brugge giving away a two-goal lead over bottom-side Beerhcot to earn just a 2-2 draw. 

Celtic's next Champions League opponents in trouble before Parkhead trip

According to the Daily Record, the Belgian media have reported that Club Brugge chairman Bart Verhaeghe was so unhappy that he went into the dressing room after the match to remind the players of their responsibilities. And now Hugo Siquet has publicly criticised manager, Nicky Hayen, for a lack of opportunities.

To give you a feeling of the lack of stability at Club Brugge, they have had more managers than the Rangers over the past five years. That’s even if you include Steven Davis in charge at Ibrox for a month. Since Philippe Clement was the manager there, they’ve had six managers, including Ronny Delia.

That’s got to have made things difficult for the Club Brugge players. The last thing they’ll need is the pressure that comes with having to deliver at Celtic Park in Europe's top competition.