"If Celtic really want to make a mark in Europe" - Anthony Joseph drops Parkhead transfer claim

Celtic ‘will need at least three solid number nines’ if they are to have any success in Europe next season, according to Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph.

The Hoops enjoyed a productive first campaign under manager Ange Postecoglou domestically last time out yet struggled to make an impact across the continent.

Postecoglou’s reign at Parkhead got off to a slow start. Celtic were dumped out of the Champions League qualification second round by FC Midtjylland, although they did progress to the Europa League group stages.

And the Glasgow giants also fell to three defeats in their opening six Scottish Premiership fixtures, handing fierce rivals Rangers a healthy lead at the top of the table.

However, the 56-year-old tactician was able to turn things around quickly, guiding Celtic to League Cup glory in December while going on a 32-game unbeaten run in the league.

The Bhoys also reached the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup but were unable to replicate that success when up against European opposition.

Celtic failed to progress from their Europa League group after losing half of their games before being thrashed 5-1 on aggregate by Norwegian minnows Bodo/Glimt in the Europa Conference League knockout round play-off.

Throughout 2021/22, Celtic rarely struggled for goals, with four players reaching double figures in all competitions, yet arguably only Kyogo Furuhashi was particularly prolific.

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The Japan international was the club’s top scorer, hitting 20 strikes in his 33 appearances, but Joseph believes he will need more support if Postecoglou’s charges are to change their fortunes in Europe.

He told GiveMeSport: “If Celtic want to really make a mark