Frustrated John Hartson has shifted Celtic's focus to the Europa League path as he played down the chances of winning their next two Champions League games.
It was a disappointing night in Germany for Ange Postecgolou's men as their hopes of reaching the knockout stage were dealt a blow by RB Leipzig. Despite the 3-1 defeat to the Bundesliga side, a win over Marco Rose's side at Celtic Park coupled with a victory over Shakhtar Donetsk could put Celtic in pole position to reach the last 16 when they face Real Madrid in matchday six.
However, Parkhead hero Hartson is more concerned about the level of performance produced in the RB Arena as he placed serious doubts over claiming three points in Glasgow's east end next Tuesday. The Welshman does believe there could be a route forward in Europe for the Scottish Premiership champions. Hartson told The Go Radio Football Show: 'We're up against a team that have got a player, (Christopher) Nkunku, who has a £90m release clause.
"That's at least a £70m player right there. We are up against a team that has real, real quality. It's not to say we haven't but it's what we are up against. We are almost punching above our weight and that's the level we are at. We have got to strive to be at that level, but there is no shame in the performance (against RB Leipzig).
"It wasn't great. I thought they had were tactically aware and had the Lion's share of the ball, and controlled the middle of the park. Again, Leipzig come to Celtic Park next week and it's in our hands. If we beat Leipzig and then of course beat Shakhtar, and we know how strong we are at Celtic Park, we win the next two and that takes us through on seven points. There is still that opportunity for us to go through in second place."
Host Paul Cooney chimed in: "So you do think Celtic will take six points from their next two games at home?" However, Hartson was quick to shut down the prediction.
He sharply responded: "I don't think, Paul. There is a possibility with Celtic's home form, but they would have to play very, very well to beat a team that have outplayed them (Leipzig). The positive is that if we beat Leipzig and Shakhtar then we are second in the group.
"I am holding on to the fact that we are not dead and buried. If we finish third we have a playoff to get through to the Europa League, so you have to think if we can finish third now."
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