GAFFER MADE A STATEMENT
PAUL LAMBERT reckons feasting on Ferencvaros was the big statement win Ange Postecoglou has been looking for.
And he insists Celtic are right back in the fight to get out of their Europa League group.
The ex-Celt was thrilled to see Postecoglou’s men humble the Hungarians and said: “I felt they needed a big win whether that was in the Europa League or Rangers coming here.
“This is great for the manager as well. They were very, very good.
“It was brilliant. From start to finish, Celtic were the best team by a mile. I thought their football was excellent.
“I don’t think they gave them a chance of getting into the game.
“I wasn’t that impressed with Ferencvaros. If the lad Ryan Mmaee up front got into a sprint then I didn’t see it.
“They were short of it. I’m not sure if they were comfortable with the atmosphere. I think it gave them a fright.
“Well done to the Celtic fans coming out at 3.30pm on a Tuesday.
“If Real Betis come here and it’s a last-game scenario then this place will be absolutely jumping. I’m not sure they’ll like to play in that.”
Lambert raved about Celtic’s stunning opening goal – and is adamant it won’t be topped all week in Europe.
He said: “The pass from Jota was world class.
“If you see a better pass than that on the European scene then give me a call.
“The touch, the finish from Kyogo Furuhashi was absolutely brilliant.
“The goal starts in the left-back area. The pass is on a bit of string. It’s perfect. But what a finish.”
Lambert was impressed with Callum McGregor’s response to missing his spot kick and he hailed Anthony Ralston’s late intervention in the game to prevent a nervy finish.
He said: “The biggest thing about Callum missing the penalty was he kept taking the ball.
“That’s hard especially here as it’s a difficult place to do that. It’s a big compliment to him for doing that.
“Ralston’s tackle was every bit as important as that pass. It’s brilliant cover from Ralston – he never gave it up. It’s worthy of a goal itself.”