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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Aidan Smith

Ronny Deila pleads with Brugge for more time as he makes Celtic argument

Ronny Deila has pleaded for more time as manager of Brugge after pointing out he was also written off as Celtic boss when they slumped to sixth place in the Scottish Premiership.

The Norwegian moved to Brugge earlier this year, but they made their worst start to a season in 20 years this term. However, Deila's side got back on track with a win over Antwerp at the weekend.

And he cited an example of why the board should show patience and pointed out that a home defeat to Hamilton Accies in October 2014, saw Celtic down in sixth place in the league...only for them to storm back and win the title comfortably.

He said: "What we are experiencing at the club reminds me of my time at Celtic.

"During my first season, I was only sixth in October and it was very difficult.

"In the end, we became champions with a lead of 20 points.

"I believe in this group. Everything is there to succeed. I think the president and sports director realise that we are in a process.

"I know what it's like to win. I've done it in three countries: Norway, Scotland and the United States."

Celtic's 1-0 defeat that day at home saw Accies top the Premiership table thanks to a goal from Ali Crawford. However, Celtic would only lose two more league games that season and actually won the title by 17 points ahead of Aberdeen, with Hamilton ending up in seventh spot.

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