Celtic Draw Champions League Playoff Amid Fan Protests, Injury Concerns

Celtic's ambitions to reach the Champions League group stage are in jeopardy following a goalless draw in the first leg of their play-off against Kairat Almaty. Fans expressed their frustration with chants of 'sack the board,' targeting the club's management over a perceived lack of investment and reinforcements, especially after key player Alistair Johnston suffered an injury. Manager Brendan Rodgers acknowledged the fans' dissatisfaction but noted that typically managers, not boards, are dismissed in such situations, emphasizing his focus remains on the current squad. The Kazakh side matched Celtic's performance, exploiting counterattacks and maintaining a strong defensive stance, making the upcoming 7,000-mile return leg a daunting challenge. Rodgers has made several lineup changes but has yet to secure new signings, intensifying concerns over Celtic's readiness for European competition. The club faces mounting pressure to improve results as the fans' unrest highlights deep-rooted issues within the club's hierarchy and transfer strategy.