A triple substitution made by Ange Postecoglou is at the centre of criticism by Peter Grant after a costly 2-0 defeat to RB Leipzig.
The Hoops went down to the Bundesliga side on Champions League Group F matchday four to ensure they can't make this year's last 16. A glimmer of hope in the form of finishing third and qualifying for the Europa League is still there but overall, Celtic have their European hopes for this season dangling by a thread.
Manager Postecoglou brought off Kyogo Furuhashi, Reo Hatate and Sead Haksabanovic for David Turnbull, Aaron Mooy and Georgios Giakoumakis on 64 minutes, and less than 10 minutes they were a goal down. Parkhead hero Grant told Sportsound that was a moment his beloved club lived to rue: "Celtic lost a bit with the substitutions and that is disappointing. In that five minute period (after the triple change) they looked all over the place.
READ MORE: Celtic land two UEFA fines as Rangers and Hearts also hit in the pocket by governing body
"That gave Leipzig a foothold to score the first goal. There was a lot of good stuff and a lot great chances created. There were chances misses.
"I just think they will be disappointed with the substitutions. That is a big that has happened with Celtic. They have made subs and lifted the group.
"The players come on and provide a spark. Celtic reacted brilliantly and started to control the game. These were the fine moments but too many times they have missed the target."
READ NEXT:
- Joe Hart makes brilliant Celtic gesture to Premiership star as he's named idol of opponent
- Celtic and Rangers key Champions League matches handed grim outcome by Charlie Nicholas
- Lewis Morgan continues American dream as former Celtic star scoops Player of the Year in New York
- Steven Gerrard could hand Celtic cash windfall as Aston Villa set their transfer sights on Dembele
- Odsonne Edouard fires post-Celtic doubters a message as Patrick Vieira praises relentless striker