Chris Sutton Brands Celtic Engels Decision ‘DUMB’ With Huge Champions League Warning

Celtic supporters might be enjoying the turmoil across Glasgow, but Chris Sutton has delivered a warning that deserves attention.

Writing in the Daily Record, Sutton has questioned the timing of Arne Engels’ expected move to West Ham, with Celtic preparing for their crucial Champions League play-off against LASK.

His verdict could hardly have been stronger.

“It’s just DUMB,” Sutton declared when discussing Celtic allowing one of their most important midfielders to leave immediately before such a significant European tie.

Celtic cannot afford to weaken before LASK

That is the real issue here.

Selling Engels for around £22million represents significant business financially. However, money in the bank will provide little consolation if Martin O’Neill’s side enter the Champions League play-off weaker than they were a week earlier.

Sutton added: “There’s so much on the line, it’s unthinkable to go in to this match in a weaker position.”

He also pointed towards Engels’ excellent performance against Kilmarnock as evidence of exactly what Celtic are losing.

The Belgian provides energy, physicality and the ability to cover huge areas of the pitch. Those qualities could be particularly important against the Austrian champions.

Mika Baur has arrived, but Sutton correctly highlights that the German midfielder offers a different profile. Throwing a new signing immediately into such an important European encounter would also represent a considerable gamble.

Chris Sutton warning cuts through Celtic feelgood factor

There is plenty to be excited about.

Kasper Høgh exploded into life with his hat-trick against Kilmarnock, while Camilo Duran has shown encouraging signs. Haissem Hassan is another fascinating addition who could flourish in a more attacking Celtic side.

Yet Sutton’s warning cuts through that positivity.

LASK finished above RB Salzburg to become Austrian champions. They should not be treated as some convenient stepping stone towards the Champions League.

Celtic have spent years attempting to establish themselves properly at that level. Jeopardising another opportunity because West Ham want Engels immediately would therefore be extremely difficult to justify.

Sutton summed up the situation perfectly: “Celtic still need more.”

The recent recruitment is encouraging, but selling Engels creates another hole just as others are being filled.

Celtic supporters can continue enjoying events elsewhere in Glasgow.

When it comes to LASK, however, Sutton is right about one thing: this is absolutely no laughing matter.