This morning Celtic were drawn against Hapoel Be’er Sheva in the playoff round of the UEFA Champions League. To be honest, I think the draw has been kind to us on this occasion, but with so much at stake you would be a fool to think this tie will be a foregone conclusion. 

The Israeli side are new to this competition, but like Celtic they’ve had to come through two qualifying rounds to get to here. In the previous two seasons the Crazy Reds have only managed one qualifying round in each of their Europa League campaigns.

Based on the then and now they have made progress. In particular, seeing off regulars of European competition Olympiakos only last night.

That pushed Legia Warsaw (remember them?) into the seeded pot along with Celtic. An outcome I think most Celtic fans will find agreeable.

Should Celtic be concerned about the Israeli Champions though? Well they should be prepared and ready for a stubborn opponent, but I wouldn’t be reaching for the panic button.

Celtic will give the Crazy Reds the respect they deserve. They got here on merit like ourselves and beat a decent opponent enroute.

What is Celtic’s next move though? More signings or more of the same?

A bit of both I’d expect. Brendan Rodgers signalled his intent that another player woud join before Monday’s deadline. Tonight that is looking a lot like Scott Sinclair.

I don’t know a thing about this guy except that he was good for Brendan at Swansea. If a deal is done then it signals the end (temporarily or permanently) for Gary Mackay-Steven and/or James Forrest.

With Patrick Roberts number one wing man these days, albeit for this season only, the writing is on the wall for someone. Scott Sinclair could decide who that is.

The most important thing is we are growing again. Building upon what we have and making necessary changes.

Things are looking up. Still a bit to go yet though.

Hail! Hail!

Stevie  Mac