Celtic’s poor start under new head coach Wilfried Nancy continued as they lost 3-0 to Roma in the Europa League at Parkhead on Thursday night.
The 48-year-old had hoped to respond to the weekend defeat by Hearts in his opening game in charge, but got off to the worst possible start when Liam Scales fired a bullet header into his own net after just six minutes, before a brace from boyhood Celtic fan Evan Ferguson (36 and 45) put the Italian giants three goals up before the break.
It went from bad to worse for the hosts when Belgian midfielder Arne Engels cannoned his penalty back off the post in first-half stoppage time, while both Kelechi Iheanacho and Leon Bailey saw goals ruled out for either side following VAR checks for offside.
The result leaves Celtic in 24th position in the Europa League, clinging onto to a play-off spot ahead of their final two League Phase games against Bologna and FC Twente.
The Scottish champions will now turn their attention to the Premier Sports Cup final against St Mirren on Sunday, where new head coach Nancy will look secure his first piece of silverware with the Scottish champions.
Here’s how The Scotsman rated the performance of each Celtic player in the 3-0 defeat to Roma at Parkhead:
9. Yang Hyun-Jun - 4
Barely touched the ball and wave after wave of Roma attacks meant he was unable to get out of his own half. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
10. Sebastian Tounekti - 5
Offered plenty of running and tried to get his team on the front foot, but his final ball left a lot to be desired and he faded from the game quickly. Doesn't appear to suit the formation, and is clearly not comfortable when having to perform as a wing-back. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
11. Daizen Maeda - 5
Tried his best to offer a focal point, but was given no support by his fellow attackers, while he was swamped by more physically imposing defenders. Taken off at half-time, but far from Celtic's worst performers on a dismal night at Parkhead. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
12. Sub: Paulo Bernardo - 5 (on for Nygren HT)
A rare appearance for the Portuguese midfielder, he was neat enough as Celtic looked for a reply in the second period, but offered no meaningful impact. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images