Season summary: 2012/13

Posted on June 16, 2013 by admin

Ignore those that claim Celtic’s 2012/13 season was anything less than a spectacular success. Reaching the last 16 of the Champions League, winning the SPL plus a domestic trophy is unquestionably the high end of modern expectation. Still, a number of sluggish performances irked a handful of supporters, like the 3-2 League Cup defeat to St Mirren, and you’d have to go back 13 years to find a worse SPL points total – made all the more curious by the absence for the first time of perennial title challengers Rangers.

Managers will universally agree that the end justifies the means, and so the spotlight should look back constructively rather than detractingly. This season saw tactical innovation, the crystallization of certain individual’s roles, and evidenced in Europe the frightening idea that Peter Lawwell’s and Neil Lennon’s transfer policy is managing to compete with the continent’s elite.

The right 4-4-2

Typical early season 4-2-2-2 as per 1-0 victory over Aberdeen

A 4-0 pre-season humbling by Ajax blew the thought of a back 3 out the water, so Lennon reluctantly stuck to tried and tested variations of 4-4-2 for the first third or so of the season. The source of the reluctance was an uncertainty of what to do with the front 4. Should one of the wide midfielders play more central? (like Scott Brown in a lop-sided system). Or could a gung-ho 4-2-2-2 (with, say Georgios Samaras and James Forrest on each flank) really be trusted defensively?

Compromises emerged, particularly in Europe. Kris Commons was deployed as a 2nd striker – notably in the 2-0 home win over HJK, and then in the away qualifiers 4-5-1/4-3-3′s were deployed.

Slip-ups to Hibs and then St Johnstone posed questions about the 4-2-2-2, so the flatter 4-4-2 used successfully (at least defensively) against Benfica was the catalyst to a new approach to Europe.

Celtic 0-0 Benfica – 4-4-2 can work in Europe

Crucially, the two banks of 4 were rigid, with two strong central midfielders (and often an additional third used wide as above). The key was in leaving two striker up front, first of all to harass an opposition defence that against a single striker would have an easy time on the ball, but most importantly to work together in an attacking sense, preventing one from being left isolated while the rest of the side defend (as per traditional 4-5-1s)

Famously, this yielded two incredible feats against Barcelona – a narrow 2-1 defeat in the Camp Nou and then a 2-1 win in Glasgow. While it relinquished a tad too much of possession, making for exhausting defensive slogs: the system worked.

A special mention at this point for Kelvin Wilson and Efe Ambrose, the central defensive partnership for 5 of the 6 Champions League group stage matches. Much has been made of Lennon’s defensive chopping and changing, but these two managed a respectable 21 appearances together as a duo (a vast improvement on the season before, where the combo with the most appearances was Mulgrew/Rogne with 8 or Wilson/Rogne with 8).

More domestic firepower

For all the heroics on the continent, domestic results were undoubtedly slipping. The perception was that SPL sides were giving Celtic a taste of their own (European style) medicine – that is defending deep, energetically, and putting effort into counters.

If 4-4-2 was too predictable and 4-2-2-2 / 4-2-4 too risky, Lennon’s compromise was in between – a skewed 4-1-2-1-2 or simply 4-3-3. This provided numerical advantage in central areas, with width offered by the extraordinary full-backs Emilio Izaguirre, (and one of) Mikael Lustig and Adam Matthews.

The ‘Lennon’ 4-3-3 as per Dundee Utd 6-2 Feb 13

This was a different 4-3-3 to what is normally seen in the U.K. – the ‘Jose Mourinho’ brand of 4-3-3 which is at times indistinguishable from 4-5-1. Lennon’s brand is far more attacking, with three genuine strikers as opposed to 1 targetman and 2 wingers.

It brought one of Lennon’s “favourites” – quite literally – back to the centre of attention. Commons had had a side built around him previously – the lop-sided 4-4-2 – and like that formation he was unshackled from defensive responsibility, the creative hub of the side. And still, with the exception perhaps of James Forrest there’s probably nobody in the side with the same guile in the final third. Lennon’s great number ten problem.

As the most central of three forwards, Commons excelled, and to be put into context, of the English Premiership number 10(s) of the Year Gareth Bale scored 21 and assisted 4 in 31 matches, while Juan Mata scored 12 assisting 12 in 31. Without getting into a debate about relative strength of leagues, bear in mind this is purely a reflection on the output in a league campaign of top players. Regardless, Commons scored 11, assisting 11 in just 25 matches, justifying Lennon’s decision to yet again shape the team around him.

N.B. over the Christmas period Lennon took another look at back-3 based systems, which didn’t prove successful.

Ambition makes the 4-3-3 pretty ugly

The 2012/13 tactical journey was halted by Juventus. Lennon had previously used a 4-1-2-1-2 / 4-3-3 to great effect against Italian opposition – or specifically a 3-5-2 Italian side. Though both matches ended 1-1, Celtic got the better of Udinese on those occasions.

Juventus in the last 16, would always be a tougher proposition. Celtic had a lot of the ball, made reasonable efforts on goal, but the Italians were so ruthless. Even in the second leg, 3-0 down in aggregate Celtic lined up with an ambitious 4-3-3 that was tricked forward and smashed on the counter.

By this stage, Celtic had exceeded European expectations. The overwhelming problem, is that most of the reasons that they made it that far – the star players – are now hot property. Fraser Forster was astonishing in goal, Victor Wanyama beastly in midfield. The Englishman Kelvin Wilson was strong and calm in defence, while Mikael Lustig was singled out by his manager as potentially player of the season.

Lennon was also compelled to highlight Gary Hooper and Kris Commons (on different occasions) as being pivotal to Celtic’s attack, that without them the team goes lacking. In truth there are some 10-15 players who should be targeted by wealthy English Premiership sides, whether they can persuade Lawwell or not is another matter.

Conclusion

The agenda for the meetings that take place before the pre-season starts in earnest will cover Lennon’s new contract (he reiterates that he will be staying despite paper-talk), but mainly how to retain the likes of Hooper, Forster and Wanyama. The manager told the Daily Record:

“There are some players I’d dearly love to stay and I’ll make that clear to Peter and Dermot.

“There will be a few players leaving and I’m sure we’ll get offers for a player or two, which you can’t do anything about.

“If it’s right for the club, if it gives us something we can build on, if you can replace the player, then they will go.

Long-term gaps in the team remain: a genuine contender for Commons’ creative license, a true targetman to give the side another option (possibly solved by the signing of Amido Baldé) and another versatile centre-back, taking into account the imminent departure of Rami Gershon and Thomas Rogne.

Inevitable departures will be the major driver, but expect signings for any position. If the player fits the right profile, they will be signed regardless of a spot in the squad or not.

Team of the season 2012/13

Scout Report: Amido Baldé in Benfica 1-2 Vitória S.C.

Posted on June 10, 2013 by admin

Benfica 1-2 Vitória S.C.

Benfica’s collapse to Vitória S.C. in May’s Taça de Portugal will be remembered as the final nail in another ‘Neverkusen’, Monaco 2003/04 or AZ 2006/07. Jorge Jesus’ side lost the UEFA Cup final and the league championship days before this cup final defeat.

Celtic, amongst other suitors, meanwhile had eyes on Guimarães’ rangy striker Amido Baldé. The Bissau-born Portugeuse arrived in Glasgow yesterday to finalise a £2 million transfer, with newly promoted Crystal Palace also reportedly interested.

The move has appeared unexpectedly early, and the player’s less than house-hold name is of course fitting with Neil Lennon and Peter Lawwell’s continuing transfer strategy. That is, in a nutshell: scouring lesser fancied markets for young and improving gems.

At 22, the deal makes financial sense. But in footballing terms he is another stab at one of the great ongoing ‘gaps’ in the side – a genuine targetman, though not through want of trying. The physical void has existed since the departure of Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink – Gordon Strachan’s answer to Chris Sutton. Chris Killen came and went, Tony Mowbray tried and failed with the expensive Marc-Antoine Fortuné (and less expensive Morten Rasmussen), and Lennon has evaluated and rejected Daryl Murphy, Miku, Lassad Nouioui, and to an extent Mo Bangura.

Performance in final

Starting out on the right of a front two, Guimarães manager Rui Vitória quickly dropped the eagerly pressing Tiago Rodrigues into a deeper (number 10) area – presumably to stem the tide of Benfica’s well known quick and technical transitions forward.

This left Baldé in a true targetman role – Gary Hooper and Anthony Stokes have called it the ‘graveyard shift’ – though his side provided him no favours. He was challenged to get on the end of looping high balls or ambitious threads ahead, making for an energy sapping and thankless task.

His age showed, initially fervent in closing down one of Europe’s best defensive pairings in Luisão and Ezequiel Garay, only serving to further hamper his sharpness when receiving a pass.

Unhappily his performance was scattered with ‘nearlys’, showing great strength and movement to get on the end of things, only to slip up at the last, though this is probably as much to do with the calibre of the opposition centre-backs.

The 70th minute saw an encouraging move, flicking the ball behind and over the head of André Almeida’s head on the flank before powering down the wing, unfortunately coming to no avail, something of an unfortunate theme for his occasion.

Tenuously, he had a hand in the game-changing equaliser. As enthusiastic as ever after 80 minutes, he charged down a lost cause, putting enough fear in goalkeeper Artur to misplace his clearance. It fell to winger El Arbi Hillel Soudani, who levelled.

While Baldé’s ultimate contribution was limited, his assets were clear to see. A prime athlete’s build enough to unsettle Champions League level defences, and an indefatigable attitude. The harshest critics will connect the cup final’s unpredictable end-product with an uninspiring domestic scoring record – 9 goals in 27 league games. But at £2m Lennon and Lawwell are confident of having found a gem worth polishing.

Celtic 3-0 Hibernian: Celtic’s front 3 too much for Hibs

Posted on May 26, 2013 by admin

Celtic have won the double after a comfortable 3-0 win over Hibernian at Hampden. Celtic’s front trio of Kris Commons, Gary Hooper and in particular Anthony Stokes ran the show, with the latter having a significant hand in all three goals.

Hibs 4-4-2 vs Celtic 4-3-3

Going by the opening 7 minutes, it appeared that Celtic would have a far more difficult afternoon ahead. Neil Lennon made the surprising choice of starting James Forrest in the centre of midfield – albeit the right-most of the three.

This made for an initial unbalanced feel to the side, and the energetic and fired-up Hibs took early initiative. Perhaps the Edinburgh side had been watching the frantic pressing of Dortmund on Saturday night, because they had Celtic pegged back and unable to settle. But the good spell was short-lived, with the best chance falling to Eoin Doyle after 7 minutes. Ryan McGivern surged forward from left-back and dinked in a marvellous cross, which Doyle put straight at Fraser Forster from point-blank.

Hibs were widely considered underdogs having finished bottom-half of the SPL, and in such circumstances the underdogs have to turn those big chances in. Even more importantly, the underdog can’t lose soft goals like the opener a minute later. Stokes collected a wayward cross at the by-line, and Alan Maybury’s attempt at closing down was feeble. But nobody could expect the quality of Stokes’ delivery, good enough to make the goalkeeper look foolish and perfect for Hooper to tap in.

In spite of Celtic deploying an odd, unbalanced looking shape, in an attacking sense it created an unpredictable dynamic for runners from deep. Commons essentially had a free role, drifting from the centre outwards in search of possession. Stokes and Hooper meanwhile continually tested the defensive line, whether running off the shoulder or dropping deep, making the ideal situation for through balls.

Forrest may not have been enjoying himself, but Joe Ledley was able to put into practice his USP – bursting forward from deep – which again contributed to an overloaded defence. Many of these factors were evident in the 2nd goal, with Commons dropping into the hole to start the move, Stokes dragging out wide, Ledley bursting into the box to occupy one centre-back and Hooper splitting Hanlon and his left-back. Again, the quality of the cross was paramount, but the attacking ‘theme’ was clear.

Leigh Griffiths / Hibs shuffle

Griffiths – in his final appearance for Hibs of this loan spell – is clearly Hibs’ greatest attacking asset, and so getting him into the game was the priority. In the opening 7 minutes, he was central to the action – getting his feet on the ball and linking up with the other attackers. But as the game drifted out of reach, so too did Griffiths.

Pat Fenlon was forced to gamble. Griffiths needs somebody in support yet the midfield battle was being lost. And so, unfortunately, safety came first with Griffiths strike partner Doyle absorbed by midfield, at first used on the left wing to help see out the half, and then for the second period used on the right.

At 2-0 down the dilemma probably had no solution, but the effect was for Griffiths to become ever-more isolated from proceedings.

Conclusion

Without the suspended Victor Wanyama and Beram Kayal, Lennon had to make a gamble of his own in the centre of midfield. Hibs would’ve hoped to capitalise on Forrest’s uncertainty, and while he took stick for lacking effect (especially in comparison to his normal role as a blistering winger), he coped admirably.

Hibs required to take the big chances while defending resolutely. In the end they managed neither. Celtic’s midfield wobbled, but the defence stood firm and the front 3 were fantastic. Hooper clinical, Commons tricky, but Stokes deservingly man of the match.

Ross County 1-1 Celtic: Drab match lit up by Vigurs equaliser

Posted on May 5, 2013 by admin

Celtic’s rotated XI could only draw 1-1 with Ross County, struggling as much with their own inadequacies as the home side’s stubborn and settled gameplan.

That both goals came from set-pieces highlights the sparsity in good chances, though in fairness Tony Watt had a second incorrectly chalked off.

Lineups

Ross County 4-1-4-1 vs Celtic 4-3-3

With just Emilio Izaguirre, Mikael Lustig and Tony Watt surviving Lennon’s rotation, fringe players like Rami Gherson, Lukasz Zaluska, Dylan McGeough and Anthony Stokes joined up with regulars like Kris Commons, Efe Ambrose and Kelvin Wilson.

Lennon stuck with the much maligned 4-3-3 that’s yielded mixed results of late, with particular attention on the unconventional midfield including Ambrose sitting and McGeouch right of centre.

Derek Adams, desperate for 3 points that’d keep his side in the chase for Europe, continued with 4-1-4-1, though this was a more ambitious version than normal. Martin Scott pushed on almost as a second striker, keeping Lustig at bay, with Iain Viggurs surprisingly handed a central berth.

Ikonomou space & 4-3-3 problems

Celtic had the ball in the net after only 4 minutes, but their first-half was defined by the unorthodox formation and the space allowed for County’s left-back. It resembled at times, a 4-4-2 diamond with Commons tucked in behind the two strikers. Yet Watt was sticking out left, and Commons irregularly tracking back on the right.

This left Evangelos Ikonomou in swathes of room, able to push beyond the nominal left-winger Scott, who in turn could support the lone striker. It was in this zone that County won the free-kick that eventually resulted in the equaliser.

Problems continue with this 4-3-3, aside from the vulnerability on the flanks, the forwards are often too isolated which only encourages long-balls. Stokes is decent in the air but not exactly a target to aim for, while Watt was kept quiet aerially by the 6’4″ Mihael Kovačević.

Using 3 out and out forwards puts a numerical strain on the other 7 outfield players – demonstrated in an inability to keep the ball down (though the sandpit pitch didn’t help). Celtic only took 44% of possession as a result.

Even worse second half

Like against Motherwell, Celtic only worsened after half-time. Paul Lawson, Vigurs and Richard Brittain were simply winning the midfield battle (again related to numbers). With Commons now picking up Ikonomou, his effectiveness in attack was neutered as a result, hence the reason Lennon likes him central in the first place.

Elsewhere there were niggles. McGeouch looked like an attacking player (ideally on wing) asked to play a more defensive role, later swapping out wide. Izaguirre’s bursts down the left didn’t sit well with Watt operating high on the left and no targets to aim for. Ambrose had a stinker, unsuccessfully trying to act the playmaker, or, when sticking to the midfield ‘battle’ coming off second best.

In all, the disjointed 4-3-3 inevitably called for a shift to something else. Tom Rogic came on for the now defunct Commons, pushing Ledley wide left and McGeouch right-wing. But whatever ambition to win the match already seemed gone.

County meanwhile were well-drilled and eager. For example, from deep set-pieces the widemen pushed alongside Wohlfarth, making for a front 3 in that phase of play. Any knock-downs were aimed towards two quick and tricky players.

Lennon drew ire from the support for his use of substitutions: McCourt came on with 7 minutes to go and Kayal with just 1 – begging the question, why now? These were the right subs to make (as opposed to putting the pressure of chasing the match on untested youngsters) just at the wrong time. In the context of effecting a poor formation from the beginning, this wasn’t a good day for the manager.

Watt’s disallowed goal aside, this finely poised match was edged by County who enjoyed more possession and arguably more chances. It shows what a difference consistency can make to a side, along with the motivation of having something to play for.

Motherwell 3-1 Celtic: Déjà vu as weakened Celtic capitulate

Posted on April 29, 2013 by admin

It was a bad case of déjà vu for Neil Lennon as his weakened lineup capitulated to 2nd place Motherwell. Celtic took a first-half advantage without really excelling, only for the home side led by a lively Henrik Ojamaa to grow into a turnaround.

Unique formations

Motherwell 3-5-2 against Celtic 4-3-3

Celtic lined up in perhaps the “preferred” 4-3-3 that’s intrigued this season, but Stuart McCall was more surprising, going for a bespoke 3-5-2 as opposed to his standard 4-4-1-1.

Its design centred on out-numbering Celtic’s front 3, which makes sense given Celtic’s reliance on Gary Hooper, Georgios Samaras and increasingly Kris Commons this season. The in-form latter didn’t play however, with Tony Watt getting a chance to put forward his credentials.

The numerics worked like this: back 3 vs front 3 with the support of Tom Hateley as a sitting midfielder (picking up Celtic’s dropping forward), further supplemented by Chris Humphrey as a kind of wing-back.

Michael Higdon was left up front occupying Celtic’s 2 centre-backs in his POTY, literally smashing way, asking questions of Charlie Mulgrew and Thomas Rogne – defenders not noted for coping that well physically against robust forwards.

Luck’s fine line

Spacially the contending systems opened gaps for a player on each side. Particularly the left Celtic forward – normally Tony Watt though the front 3 were so fluid and interchanging as to make the above diagram almost worthless. Shaun Hutchinson’s early yellow-card for a foul on Samaras compounded the problem for Motherwell, with Celtic able to get in behind that left channel with surprising frequency.

The second player finding space – especially as the match wore on – was Ojamaa. Peeling off the targetman Higdon to pickup second balls, as Celtic’s anchorman was drawn into the busy midfield stramash.

Perhaps a special mention to new signing Tom Rogic at this point, for showing some glimpses of tricky bursts forward and intelligent, thoughtful passing, at least early on.

Watt took great advantage of this space on two occasions, the first in crossing for Hooper at the back post, who’s shot was saved at point-blank – a bit of misfortune for Celtic’s 88. Soon after in similar circumstance Watt’s cross was (eventually) put in by Hooper, with that space on Motherwell’s right glaring.

The relative fortune continued for Motherwell – having a stodgy half – managed to pull a goal from absolutely nowhere. Rogne’s weakness in rushing out and challenging was highlighted again as Keith Lasley collected the ball and played in Ojamaa. The Estonian’s first touch was excellent, but his finish even better, beating Fraser Forster at his near post with an exceptionally precise shot.

Capitulation

Also worth addressing Motherwell’s “penalty claim” after Ojamaa’s first-half shot hit Rogne’s arm on the way out. The rules are specific in that the defender’s actions must be deliberate – it’s a puzzle that fans, papers and pundits alike see contact with the arm in the box as an insta-penalty. In this case was it was clearly not deliberate – similar to Samaras’ “hand-ball” against St Mirren which was also correctly turned away.

Celtic’s capitulation henceforth was a demonstration in poor motivation compared to Motherwell’s growing confidence – and there was more misfortune to come. The second came from a soft penalty (albeit the correct decision) and the third saw Higdon clearly offside before Mikael Lustig headed into his own goal.

By the third, luck could no longer be used as an excuse, with Celtic downright poor. And Lennon’s substitutions did not help. First Paddy McCourt came on for Rogne, pushing Wanyama into defence.

Then McGeoch came on at right-back for Rogic pushing Lustig into defence and Mulgrew into midfield, making for the strange situation where a player starting in midfield moved into defence (Wanyama) while a player starting in defence moved into midfield (Mulgrew).

McCourt added some trickery without end-product (the expectation for him to come on as a sub and score everytime seems unfair) which Anthony Stokes’ replacing of Samaras came too late to make a difference.

Motherwell took advantage of the shuffling and uncertainty, spraying passes around with glee, looking like a far more composed and organised side despite the formational shuffling of their own.

Lennon’s post-match comments could’ve been lifted from the previous defeat:

“I’m raging. I made changes with games in mind but still put a strong team out. People keep coming to me looking to play – they got the opportunity and didn’t play. It seems to me if I leave Hooper out the team then we suffer. We were very, very poor going forward in the first half.”

This time, however, the emphasis is on the missing Kris Commons with Celtic lacking spark and creation without him. Rogic and McCourt addressed this to varying degrees, but though the two formations made for an interesting tactical duel, it was sloppy individuals to blame for this lazy late-season defeat.

Dundee Utd: 3-4 Celtic: Celtic do just enough to banish Hampden hoodoo

Posted on April 14, 2013 by admin

Anthony Stokes’ 104th minute header was enough to see Celtic through to the Scottish Cup final after an entertaining encounter.

Celtic 4-3-3 vs Dundee Utd 4-5-1

The last time these sides met it was a battle between very attacking 4-3-3′s, with Celtic running out 6-2 winners. Jackie McNamara’s lineup this time was similar, but he reined in his wide players, making for as much of a 4-5-1 as a 4-3-3. The opposing formations therefore demonstrating the two opposite ends of the 4-3-3 scale.

Utd’s manager was without Johnny Russell – who is nearing recovery from a leg-break, who was replaced by Ryan Gauld who is just 17. Younger still was centre-back John Souttar at 16, starting in the absence of Brian McLean.

Celtic welcomed a surprise start for James Forrest, the only change from the side that beat Hibernian 3-0 last weekend with Stokes dropping out.

Perhaps Utd’s relative youthful naivety was to blame for Celtic’s soft opener. Kris Commons was allowed far too much space in the centre of the park before drilling a shot into the top corner with just 82 seconds gone.

His movement on the edge of the opposition D was Celtic’s brightest attacking outlet to begin with, though he went on to drift from the match and Utd’s urgency in that area sharpened. Commons too was an injury doubt pre-match, and it was later revealed that Lennon held back news of his and Forrest’s fitness as a surprise.

These two were pivotal to Celtic’s extremely attacking shape, staying up in support of, and in fact being stationed beyond Gary Hooper during the game.

Celtic’s troubles

For Celtic’s ambitious 4-3-3 to work, the front three simply must be able to contribute, in a kind of “attack is the best form of defence” way. If they’re in the game and playing, the opposition are defending. But the early Commons goal (and a few other glimpses of Commons) aside, Hooper and Forrest were invisible

The front 3′s lack of tangible defensive duty was one blow to Celtic’s hope of keeping out the goals, but there were two other main problems: Joe Ledley’s positional sense as a sitting midfielder wasn’t up to scratch – his trademark after all is more box-to-box energy – and the two full-backs eagerness to get forward.

Utd were taking full advantage of these factors, leading to the equaliser. Ledley burst into Utd’s box but was fairly dispossessed. On the counter this left a 3 vs 2, only for Kelvin Wilson to dive in on Daly, missing the ball. Mackay-Steven played a one-two with Gauld before slotting past Forster. Lennon made an adaptation at that point, dropping Mulgrew into holding midfield and shifting Ledley left.

The good, the bad, and the Izaguirre

Izaguirre’s contribution proved critical for both sides in the mid-game. With the score at 1-0, he picked out Lustig at the back post with a fabulous cross, who really should’ve scored. But for Utd’s second, he was fairly culpable in the zonal system defending a Utd set-piece.

He failed to challenge Barry Douglas’ superb inswinging front-post delivery from the right, when arguably he was the only Celtic player with a hope of reaching the ball. Perhaps more culpable was Ambrose at the far-post, keeping Daly onside, but still Izaguirre’s desire to even attempt to block the cross was disappointing.

Back to the good, and Izaguirre got the better of his opposite number Mackay-Steven to whip in another fine cross that Wanyama dispatched to make it 2-2. And Izaguirre also provided for Commons to make it 3-2 on the hour.

But again the ugly defending returned, allowing Daly to ghost in behind him to equalise once more. Wanyama arguably could’ve provided stiffer resistance to Mackay-Steven, who whipped in the cross, but Izaguirre once again showcased his lack of awareness at the back-post.

Second roll of the dice

McNamara gradually introduced a more attacking flavour to his team, starting off on the hour with Stuart Armstrong coming on for Mark Millar – a pacey box-to-box central midfielder on for a more reserved deep-lying “continuity” midfielder. Armstrong is an impressive talent and probably unlucky to miss out on the start.

Lennon made an attempt to change the run of play – namely the misfiring front 3, coupled with Utd’s youthful verve on the counter. Stokes and Beram Kayal were introduced for Lustig and Wanyama respectively, reshuffling to a 4-4-2 (or 4-2-2-2). Mulgrew dropped to centre-back with Ambrose at right-back, “Strooper” up-top, but more importantly more protection out wide.

This saw more use out of Forrest at least, who had decent opportunities cutting in from the right. His movement also pinning Mackay-Steven back (who at this point had swapped flanks with Gauld), allowing Ambrose to somewhat surprisingly be Celtic’s freest attacker on the pitch.

It took until extra-time for Forrest’s greatest contribution, which saw him sticking to what he does best – beating the full-back and getting to the by-line – and Stokes headed in the winner.

It probably made for a fair result, with Celtic being their own worst enemy for much of the game. But Utd’s performance deserves praise, at least in terms of energy and enthusiasm, with special merit for the 16 year-old Souttar in a crucial role, and Utd’s two young attacking wingers.

The Hampden hoodoo therefore banished for now, with Hibs lying in wait for the final.

Celtic 3-0 Hibernian: Old comforts for comfortable win

Posted on April 7, 2013 by admin

Celtic’s title celebrations have to wait another fortnight after a comfortable late season win over Hibernian. It had been a rocky end to the campaign, having won just 2 of the previous 6 SPL matches, but Neil Lennon’s side never looked like struggling here.

Celtic 4-4-2 versus Hibs 4-1-4-1

Lennon returns to old comforts

Lennon has broadly stuck to variations of a front 3 since before Christmas, which at times has contributed to the dithering results. It is fitting to look back at the reason Lennon discarded a fairly popular and consistent 4-4-2, because it was so instrumental in the win here.

In short, the reason is Kris Commons. A 4-3-3 or 3-4-3 has allowed Lennon to play Commons centrally, and indeed against tougher teams has used Commons central in a 4-4-2. It places him closer to goal for a start, and there doesn’t seem to be anyone in the squad with as much creativity and guile at the moment (going back to the age old blog favourite – the search for a number 10).

But against Hibs, it was back to basics in many ways. A return to this season’s most successful central defence partnership in Kelvin Wilson and Efe Ambrose, a return to previous season’s favourite up top, the “Strooper” pairing, and finally a return to something like a lop-sided 4-4-2, a “peak” formation during the previous two campaigns.

To a lesser, similar extent we could see Izaguirre back to his swashbuckling best, and a more tucked in midfield on the opposite side of Commons.

Granted, defensively this was a more typical flat 4-4-2 than previous incarnations, yet Celtic’s best early chances, and eventually killer two goals, came via Commons cutting in centrally. For both, he received the ball almost precisely in the centre of the pitch, which obviously is not normal for your average right-midfielder.

Hibernian

Hibs’ hopes were pinned on the one and the one in a 4-1-4-1 – Jorge Claros, a technically gifted deep-lying midfielder, and Leigh Griffiths who probably needs no introduction. The rest of the midfield were there primarily to break up Celtic’s play, especially with the one man advantage, but also to break in numbers to support the diminutive lone striker.

Of course the other standard worry facing a counter-attacking team was set-pieces, with Griffiths left-foot a particular worry. An early chance swung past the far post, but the required fortune wasn’t with Hibs in this regard.

But with Hibs back 10 relatively compact, Griffiths cut a lonesome figure. This also served to make life difficult for Claros, starved of space and long options.

Experimental changes with scoreline comfortable

Mikael Lustig, singled out by Lennon as one of the players of the season, added the third, admittedly using his hand, but given Hibs’ looked dead and buried at 2-0, it didn’t really matter. Unsurprisingly, Commons had a part to play, drawing two defenders inside and opening space for Joe Ledley to supply the cross.

The 3 goal cushion allowed Lennon to make his first change, with Georgios Samaras replacing Lustig. Ambrose went to right-back with Charlie Mulgrew – who had a good game in midfield – dropping back. But more surprisingly, there were cameo appearances for Tom Rogic and Paddy McCourt on either flank.

Rogic was the most significant bearing in mind who he replaced – Commons at right-midfield. It recalls of course the number 10 question, and perhaps demonstrates that Lennon has designs on Rogic being Commons’ main challenger.

We know that Rogic is an attack-minded midfielder, capable of playing all across the breadth of the park. He is also creative, able to beat a man, and mainly left-footed. The 12 minutes given weren’t enough to make a mark, especially with the match winding down, but it was certainly the most interesting change.

Celtic are now only playing for the Scottish Cup, and so this return to 4-4-2 is a timely “keep them guessing” technique in lieu of Dundee Utd next weekend. Jackie McNamara though, will be wary of his last encounter with Celtic and especially wary of Lennon’s main man. Commons played centrally in a 4-3-3, scoring a brace and providing an assist in a 6-2 thrashing. Expect a similar approach on Sunday.

St Mirren 1-1 Celtic: Neil Lennon bemoans ref instead of poor Celtic

Posted on March 31, 2013 by admin

4-3-3 vs 4-4-1-1

2 wins in 6 SPL matches is an uncomfortable run of form for Celtic, so referee Bobby Madden’s wild performance came at an inconvenient time. Sending off Victor Wanyama early in the second-half was harsh, but awarding a penalty for Ismael Goncalves’ dive was simply incorrect.

For all the poor decisions made by Madden, somehow Celtic were inferior. Kris Commons’ early header was a great start – St Mirren looked weak in the air throughout – but it was downhill from there.

Aside from their lukewarm attitude, Celtic’s biggest problem was holding onto the ball and dictating play. This is the main disadvantage to Neil Lennon’s current favoured formation, the 4-3-3. It is played to accomodate Celtic’s 3 main attacking players (and favourites of Lennon), Gary Hooper, Georgios Samaras and Kris Commons. The latter 2 tend to suffer most from any other formation, with Samaras preferring his bespoke role on the left of a front 3, and Commons being more effective centrally.

Commons’ influence was key – both before and after incurring a nasty looking injury that forced him off. Celtic’s best play invariably came through him receiving the ball to feet in the number 10 position, with his back to goal. St Mirren’s five man midfield managed to minimise the risk. When not involved however, Celtic’s invention was lacking. Overly direct, hopeful long passes bypassing the midfield three.

Celtic’s high turnover of the ball played into St Mirren’s hands, allowed back into the game enjoying more possession (well) before and after the decisive red card. John McGinn surprisingly started wide-left, going against Danny Lennon’s previous two lineups against Celtic (normally using Goncalves). But McGinn was excellent, thriving out wide where the opposition were lacking in numbers, and Gary Teale improved in similar fashion later on.

This is the second disadvantage to Neil Lennon’s 4-3-3 – a relative lack of width. The manager was constantly at odds with the positioning of Izaguirre and Ambrose – the players meant to be stretching play horizontally, but especially in the latter’s case, it was difficult to dominate a flank with 2 opposition players ahead.

Post-Commons

Celtic post-Commons

After the injury, Neil Lennon abandoned the 4-3-3 designed with Commons in mind. Anthony Stokes replaced him, putting Samaras left in a return to a lop-sided 4-4-2. This was bad news for Beram Kayal, unsuitably then Celtic’s right-most midfielder.

At this point, despite the lack of possession Celtic were relatively comfortable – doing better going down the left. But this was all to change after one of the referee’s more contentious decisions. Wanyama – who’d been quietly effective – was shown a straight red for following through on McGinn and kicking his shin. It was the speed and height of the contact that fired the referee’s imagination, but should’ve merited only a yellow.

Post-Commons post-Wanyama

This was a bit of a disaster in terms of team-shape, yet strangely after to-ing and fro-ing, Lennon opted to keep the player most suited to playing out wide, up front – presumably to utilise Samaras’ vastly superior running strength.

The poor ball retention problem was exacerbated, and with 30 minutes remaining St Mirren looked confident of an equaliser.

It’s a shame then, that it took a dive from Goncalves to achieve the goal. Izaguirre’s foot never entered the box, ruling that out, but most embarrassing of all for Madden, was the lack of contact full-stop.

With Paul McGowan dispatching the penalty, St Mirren’s grasp on the match tightened. Neil Lennon, though he would’ve been loath to do it, replaced Hooper with Dylan McGeouch in an attempt to inject pace, creativity, and plain old playing the right player in the right position.

The match opened up, with Teale having some decent moments on the break, but poor Celtic couldn’t improve. Ball retention (or lack of) was singled out by Neil Lennon after the narrow 4-3 victory over Aberdeen and again speaking to the BBC at St Mirren Park. But most of all he criticised Madden. “I have to be careful what I say what with the suspended sentence hanging over head. But.. it was by far worst referring performance this season by a long long way. For both sides, yeah”

“How he got so many big decisions wrong is beyond me”

Celtic 4-3 Aberdeen: Poor Celtic comeback via set-pieces

Posted on March 16, 2013 by admin

Celtic somehow came back from a 3-1 deficit after conceding 3 very soft goals. Neil Lennon’s side failed to capitalise on Kris Commons’ quick-fire opener, with performance gradually declining before a breathtaking finale.

Celtic Lineup

Celtic 4-4-2 diamond / 4-3-3

Lennon made 3 changes in personnel to the experimental side that lost 3-2 to Ross County last weekend, with Rami Gherson and Miku out of the match squad altogether, and Dylan McGeouch dropping to the bench.

Gone too was the back 3/5 that struggled in the Highlands, in a kind of demonstration as to how similar the 4-4-2 diamond and 3-5-2 operate from the midfield forward. Two midfielders still sit (Joe Ledley and Beram Kayal), with a dynamic front three ahead. Notably Commons use as a number 10 was more emphasised, as opposed to his frequent use as effectively another number 9.

Mikael Lustig made a welcome return at right-back, with fellow full-back Emilio Izaguirre also back in the side.

Aberdeen Lineup

Aberdeen 4-4-2

This was the first game since Craig Brown’s announcement that he is to leave Aberdeen for retirement at the end of the season. Brown had to use the right-sided utility player Ryan Jack at left-back, covering for Clark Robertson who sustained an ankle injury against Motherwell.

The veteran manager opted for a more conservative formation compared to the 4-3-3 employed for the majority of this season. Niall McGinn – far and away Aberdeen’s top scorer this season – had to make do with a workmanlike role on the left-wing.

Considering before Celtic, Aberdeen could only muster 3 goals in 9 matches, it was a bit of a compromise, but still Brown went with 2 strikers in the starting lineup.

Uncommon opening

Given that the generally accepted classification of a goal from a set-piece, is one which occurs during that attack, perhaps Celtic’s opener could be considered just that. Lustig’s long-ball was collected by Stokes, he layed up Commons who blasted in with just 12 seconds on the clock.

From Aberdeen’s point of view, it was a disaster in terms of picking up a midfield runner from deep – Commons the number 10. Stephen Hughes was too preoccupied with the positioning of his “opposite number” Joe Ledley, and the defence challenged Lustig’s long-ball. Therefore Commons pushed into the box completely unmarked and scored.

His unfettered existence between the lines in the opening 10 minutes gave the impression that Celtic were going to run away with it, also serving to exaggerate Aberdeen’s compactness. The bands (defence, midfield, attack) were wide open, with Celtic’s attack comfortably darting passes amongst each other.

There were no specific changes made to address this compactness other than simply tightening up, dropping deeper if necessary. This isolated the front two, and prevented the tricky wingers from having an influence in dangerous areas.

Celtic frustration – Aberdeen rise

Celtic’s front 3 wilted, with the creative burden squarely, unfairly perhaps, on Commons’ shoulders. The other reasonable area of attack was down the flanks, with Izaguirre in particular getting forward well – but with 3 minute strikers (actually, Stokes was doing OK winning aerial duels) crossing from the full-backs seemed like a wasted avenue.

So without creating clear cut chances, the home side were comfortable. Perhaps a little too comfortable, with Kelvin Wilson flimsily brushed aside to allow Scott Vernon’s out-of-nowhere equaliser. This dramatically changed the complexion of the match – from unspectacularly, yet, comfortably winning, to unspectacularly deteriorating.

One would imagine that Lennon’s half-time conversation would’ve been colourful, yet Celtic emerged after the break just as fragile as before, and by the hour were 3-1 behind. Aberdeen’s second was plain old terrible defending, with Efe Ambrose’s failed attempt at winning a loose ball somehow leaving him 30 yards from his centre-back partner.

This provided plenty of space for Josh Magennis to escape Wilson, who conspired with Fraser Forster to allow what seemed like an innocuous shot, to trundle over the line. At least for the third, Celtic were fairly blameless, with Magennis requiring huge amounts of fortune to deflect Gavin Rae’s shot into the goal.

Set-piece comeback

This made for the bizarre situation where one poor and goal-shy team found itself 3-1 up against a just about poorer side. Immediately Lennon made his first change, swapping the quiet Beram Kayal (who incidentally, might’ve seen red for one dreadful tackle) for Georgios Samaras. The big Greek went wide left, Commons wide right to return the formation to the tried and tested 4-2-2-2 formation.

Samaras was fired-up, making a quick impact with good ball retention (that kind of targetman function had previously been lacking) and enough strong running to keep Aberdeen pinned back.

Lassad Nouioui soon appeared, to replace Stokes who had a mixed afternoon. Certainly (at the time of the substitution) more productive than Hooper, but punctuated by silly and unfortunate moments that only irked his manager. Lassad though, had little time to make an impact, and while his touch is continually rather impressive, he still does carry a reputation – probably unfairly – for not providing enough.

Consistently the best route to goal – applicable this season whenever Celtic have played poorly – was via set-pieces. Celtic took 7 corners in the second-half alone supplemented by further indirect free-kicks, and Aberdeen were struggling to cope.

No surprise then that the three goals that completed the comeback were sourced from corner kicks. Charlie Mulgrew, Gary Hooper and then, sensationally, Samaras’ overhead kick to steal the win. Of course the timing to make the following observation seems off given the thrilling last-minute nature of the comeback, but Celtic’s dependency on set-pieces has managed to paper over numerous dull performances.

With two matches to help prepare for the Scottish Cup against Dundee Utd in April, time is running out to find both a comfortable starting formation, and the motivation to ensure Celtic perform as well as everybody knows they can.

Juventus 2-0 Celtic (5-0 agg.) Classy Juventus knock out Celtic

Posted on March 6, 2013 by admin

Celtic were given a lesson in the Italian style of patient defending and clinical counter-attacking, as Neil Lennon’s pre-tie fears materialised. Alessandro Matri and Fabio Quagliarella scored the goals that ended the unlikely notion of a second leg comeback.

Celtic Lineup

Celtic 4-3-3 / 4-4-2 diamond

Lennon’s obligatory starting surprise was the utilisation of Victor Wanyama and Charlie Mulgrew. Wanyama started at centre-back as opposed to holding midfield, which is where Mulgrew was asked to play.

Elsewhere there was no room for in-form James Forrest or the improving Anthony Stokes, with Lennon selecting largely has strongest XI. Given a recent move away from 4-3-3, the formation wasn’t quite expected, but like the last leg and against fellow 3-5-2 playing Italioans Udinese last season, Lennon kept to the same plan.

Juventus Lineup

Juventus 3-5-2

Antonio Conte made 4 changes to the side that drew 1-1 with Napoli on Friday. He replaced both strikers Mirko Vučinić and Sebastian Giovinco with Matri and Quagliarella, rested veteran defender Giorgio Chiellini, but also hooked the notorious Stephan Lichtsteiner.

In some respects it was resting some of Conte’s most important outfield players – but it was still a strong side, with certain individuals gunning for a first-team place.

Juventus cautious / Celtic’s midfield & attack

While the 4-3-3 has worked well over the last few months in the SPL, the problem against stronger teams is that the front 3 can become isolated from the rest of the side, prompting long hopeful balls forward rather than concerted passing moves.

Much of this was thanks to Juventus cool defending, happy to absorb the front 3 into a deep mix of (effectively a back 5) and three sitting midfielders. Celtic’s own midfielders were pushed out, particularly with Mulgrew deeper, allowing the most meaningful attacks to go down the flanks via the full-backs.

The trouble is, even when Emilio Izaguirre and Adam Matthews were putting in decent crosses, Juventus’ 3 centre-backs plus dropping midfielders were more than happy to mop up in the air. Kris Commons and Gary Hooper just aren’t adept at beating defenders aerially.

Good possession countered

Beram Kayal, Mulgrew, and the excellent Joe Ledley looked as comfortable as ever in midfield, sweeping the ball from side to side in search for a full-back runner. But when it came to working it through the centre – perhaps to Commons in search of a shot – there just wasn’t enough space. In that final third Juventus sprang to life, with Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba providing an aggressive, impenetrable shield. Celtic’s best chance early on was restricted to Ledley’s long range drive.

But with practically their first meaningful attack, Juventus took the lead after 24 minutes. 2 things stood out – Hooper dropping deep taking on possession, but also his mistake, panicking in possession with a poor touch allowing Barzagli to rob him.

Plenty work was still on, as Quagliarella’s low shot was palmed by Fraser Forster into Matri’s path. It was a powerful shot, but now the best save, with the feeling that “Barcelona” form Forster maybe could’ve done better.

Celtic’s tetchy attack Vs composed Juve

With the tie essentially over as a contest, Juventus relaxed back while Celtic mustered some reasonable attacks. Commons’ strong shot from range was deflected by Hooper requiring a superb save from Buffon, but it just wasn’t to be.

Corners this time were a non-issue, with Celtic’s 2 first half attempts easily defended (no wrestling required). The full-backs couldn’t find the right cross, and nothing could be found in the middle.

Juventus meanwhile were sprightly on the counter, with Matri and Quagliarella linking up well. In a sense, another small lesson in detaching a front two from the rest of the side and working with it.

Second half changes

While the competition ebbed away, there were a few tactical surprises left for Lennon. His first problem was withdrawing Wanyama, who had a quiet game in defence (injury related). Ambrose was his replacement, but with Matthews going off with a worrying injury, the Nigerian was moved to right-back with Mulgrew dropping to centre-back.

James Forrest came on at this point, awkwardly as the right-most central midfielder, making for a strangely unbalanced 4-3-1-2. It was too far away from the touch-line to really make use of his speed, where he excelled in recent domestic matches.

Strange reactive shape aside, Lennon’s main problem was probably concentration and composure within his side. With Hooper giving away possession for the first goal, Mulgrew almost provided something similar to release Pogba, with Quagliarella coming close.

Izaguirre – guilty earlier in failing to track back (albeit after contributing a gut-busting run) – was largely at fault for the second. In fairness Pirlo’s diagonal pass over the top was exquisite, with Vidal controlling expertly before squaring for Quagliarella.

Conclusion

The summary will be repeated far and wide, but it really was a masterclass in ruthlessness by Juventus. Celtic may have dominated possession and on paper chances created and shots on goal, but Juventus truly out-thought Lennon’s side.

Patient and rugged in defence, completely at ease with Celtic on the ball in areas deemed to be safe.

After the draw was made, Lennon predicted Juventus would a classic Italian side – strong in defence and clinical going forward, while also underlining the importance of a clean sheet at home. Such a shame therefore that such cheap goals were conceded, and perhaps no surprise that Ambrose missed out on starting the second leg.

In the end, Juventus were too strong – not necessarily out-played but certainly out-thought.