MAGNUS IS BHOY TO BLAME

CHRIS SUTTON is in no doubt that keeper Magnus Hedman was to blame for Celtic blowing the lead and losing 2-1 on their last visit to Munich back in 2003.

It was 14 years ago that Martin O’Neill led his side to the Olympic Stadium and the Record Sport columnist recalls a night which ended with the Swedish No.1 facing the Irishman’s wrath for a late blunder which cost them the game.

Hedman let Roy Maakay’s cross/ shot beat him for the winner and Sutton said: “It was his fault. We all felt sorry for Magnus but when he went in the shower we blamed him. That’s what happens in football.

“We felt a result was achievable so it was a huge disappointment but our away form was our Achilles’ heel.

“And, while we don’t want to start pointing fingers … it was Magnus Hedman’s fault.

“We played well. Alan Thompson scored early in the second half and we were quite comfortable, even though they equalised. Then Magnus, well, let’s not blame him, but Roy Makaay got his second.

“Magnus got hairdryered after the game. I actually felt sorry for him – for about five seconds – as Martin O’Neill went at him.”

Sutton believes the gulf in class between Bayern and Celtic in 2003 is nothing compared to the chasm between the clubs now.

He said: “The gap is bigger now. Bayern are a superb team but you can’t rule out Celtic scoring with Leigh Griffiths, Patrick Roberts and Scott Sinclair in there.”

GORDON PARKS