Monday, 10th February, 2014
A livid Celtic boss Neil Lennon has demanded an urgent response from his side after their near-flawless run in Scotland was ended by Aberdeen.
The Hoops were on a 12-match winning streak in all competitions – they are unbeaten in the league – amid another tilt at the double.
mobile ad
However, the 2-1 Scottish Cup defeat to Aberdeen means they can only count on retaining the league title for a successful season.
Lennon was left to rue a "flat" Celtic side on Saturday, and wants a different attitude when St Johnstone visit on Saturday.
relatedNewsStory
"We have to show a bit of character now," Lennon told the club website. "We have to take the criticism, we all do – myself, the players, and finish the season really well with a view going into next season.
"We were desperate to defend the trophy. We worked very hard this week on preparing the team and then we got as poor a performance as that. It happens in football, it´s a cup-tie, but I want more from my players – I demand more and I should get more.
"It's very difficult to single out any player for any credit – [goalscorer Anthony] Stokes possibly and James [Forrest], who provided a bit of spark. The rest of the team were very flat.
"[Aberdeen] looked the hungrier team at times which is something I can´t say about my team over the course of this season. That's the most disappointing thing."
Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.
