Celtic were handed a brutal Europa League lesson tonight by FC Midtjylland.

Three goals late in the first half decided the match in favour of the Danish club, in truth the 3-1 final score-line flattered Celtic.

After four matches in the Europa League Celtic have four points making progress seem unlikely. Especially with away matches against Feyenoord and Bologna to be faced.

EUROPEAN DECLINE

In six European ties this season Celtic have won just once. A 2-1 victory at home to Sturm Graz among matches against clubs from Kazakhstan, Serbia, Portugal, Austria and Denmark. None of the five richest leagues in Europe.

A year ago Celtic were sitting on seven Champions League points after beating RB Leipzig at home. The regression has been stark.

Over the course of four days Celtic switched from beating the worst team in the Europa League after extra time to facing the best side in the competition on home soil.

According to the UEFA stats Midtjylland had 24 attempts on goal to five from Celtic. One of them being an 81st minute penalty from Reo Hatate.

NO CONSOLATION

Callum Osmand won that penalty, a few minutes later the young striker was stretchered off...