Ex-Celtic striker John Hartson has blamed a lack of composure for the Hoops’ performances in the Champions League this season.

Ange Postecoglou’s side lost 2-0 at home to RB Leipzig on Tuesday evening, meaning they have picked up just one point from four group matches. Hartson feels that they have been competitive in every fixture but bad luck, as well as profligacy in front of goal, has cost them dearly:

“I’ve got to be honest. I think Celtic have had really good moments in almost every game. But the lack of being clinical in front of goal. A little bit unlucky as well, the ball bouncing to you in the right moments and things like that.”

“So I’m not going to be critical at all because I think Celtic have had a real good go. The effort levels have been outstanding in all the games and they’ve given absolutely everything. And it’s just not gone their way. I think the lack of that little bit of composure in front of goal.”

There is definitely a lot of truth in what Hartson is saying. Celtic should have won against Shakhtar, while mistakes played a big part in their defeat in Germany versus Leipzig. However, you are not going to get anywhere if you concede so many goals.

Nine have been shipped in just four Champions League games. Postecoglou seems reluctant to change his attacking approach in Europe and you’d have to say that it hasn’t done them any favours, especially against teams such as Real Madrid and Leipzig who have players with superior finishing ability.