Martin O'Neill admits he was 'really disappointed' with Rangers' performance in the Champions League as he predicted a much better campaign for Celtic next season.
The Old Firm duo returned to Europe's top table this season following Ange Postecoglou's Scottish Premiership triumph and the Light Blues' successful navigation of the qualifying route - defeating Union Saint-Gilloise and PSV to reach the lucrative group stages.
But it wasn't to be for Scottish clubs in the Champions League with both sides failing to pick up a victory between them. Celtic managed two draws as they refused to change the attacking style they have adopted since Postecoglou's arrival. There was a number of near misses and regret over big chances not being converted. Across the city it was a different story with Rangers suffering big defeats as they failed to pick up a single point and landed the unwanted tag as the 'worst ever' team after a -20 goal difference.
READ MORE: Barry Ferguson delivers 'I think you know the answer' Rangers response when quizzed on Ibrox role
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Celtic hold a nine point lead over Rangers in the Premiership standings are in the driving seat for an automatic return to the premier competition next season, which would mean the Ibrox men would have to deal with qualifiers once again if things stay as they are.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst has come under increased scrutiny for results both in Europe and domestically with Hoops legendary boss O'Neill admitting he expected better.
Speaking on talkSPORT, he said: "Celtic, I will take an apologist's view, they played a lot of games, a lot of attacking moments in games. Against Real Madrid in the opening match had they scored first, which they could have easily done, who knows? It might have been different. Lots to learn about that one.
"Rangers, obviously, really disappointing, it shows you there is that gap there, money talks, it's big news. Great for both clubs to get in, genuinely great, I think Celtic with a bit of experience can do better next season. And Rangers, I have been really disappointed with Rangers I think they could have genuinely could have done better,I thought they would have done better, particularly at home.
"You know, I am loathed here to be criticising managers, I have been in these position myself so I know what it is like. Van Bronckhorst, first of all, brilliant footballer, he's a save away from winning the Europa League. A save away from doing that. They are so, so close. Perhaps if Aaron Ramsey scores the penalty, you never know. It's funny how life pushes on."
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