Scott Brown sends clear Celtic transfer message after watching LASK implosion as 'quality' demand sent

Celtic legend Scott Brown believes his old side’s collapse in the Champions League play-off against LASK Linz proves they lack depth, as he pleads for more ‘quality’ in the transfer window.

The Hoops took a 3-0 lead to Austria, which captain Callum McGregor added to in the first half to seemingly put the tie out of sight at the Raiffeisen Arena. However, the hosts then found the target four times without response to send the match to extra time - where LASK striker Samuel Adeniran delivered the final hammer blow to end Celtic’s Champions League dream.

Celtic finished the match with an extremely weary Auston Trusty in the back line, alongside substitutes Anthony Ralston, Dane Murray and Liam Scales. The lack of squad depth in this area was particularly noticeable as LASK piled on the pressure during extra time.

LASK capitulation highlights need for ‘quality’ additions

The Hoops have spent upwards of £30m on four new additions this summer, however Brown believes they need more ready-made starters in the building before next week’s market closure. Speaking on BBC Sounds’ Scottish Football Podcast, he said: “They (Celtic) didn't work the goalie enough at all and they didn't have that sharp link-up play that they've probably had since the start of the season.

“After, you give a goal away, which was nice and sloppy from Benjamin Nygren, but from there, the amount of chances that Celtic gave up from in possession - not making nice easy passes or the right decision, that's what's probably going to hurt Martin a little bit more. But look from where Celtic were since Martin came in to where they are now. they're in a miles better position, they're bringing players in that are actually in the starting XI, but it shows you on that bench they need better quality players to come on.”

European nightmare exposes depth

Pundit James McFadden added: “The subs didn't come on and have a positive impact on the game, and you need that to happen, whether it's to stem the flow or change the flow. In actual fact, they made them more open. Before the game, you’re asking ‘how are Celtic going to approach it?’ Will they try and dominate the ball like they normally do?

“But it was aimless, and you could just see LASK getting stronger, more belief building. Celtic didn't have an answer to that, I mean even towards the end, they go from an unbelievable position of three goals up, to four goals up at one stage. Then they’re chasing a goal to take it to penalties, and they still didn't really create any chances. I think it does expose the squad.”

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