After what they have witnessed from their team over the last couple of weeks, the last thing the Celtic support likely want to hear is that more of the same could be in the offing.
That was the warning though from manager Brendan Rodgers after another toothless display in the goalless draw against Rangers, unless the club deliver the players required to change the dynamic of his team in the pivotal final hours of the transfer window.
Having failed to score over two games and extra time against Kairat Almaty as they crashed out of the Champions League, the champions were again lacking in pace, craft and invention in the final third as they drew a blank at Ibrox.
Celtic registered the only two shots on target of the contest, speculative efforts from Reo Hatate and Kieran Tierney that were dealt with comfortably by Rangers keeper Jack Butland, but Rodgers cut a frustrated figure as he assessed the level of his side at present.
When asked why his team were lacking a spark, Rodgers said: “Because it is in the profile of player. I think I’m very clear on that.
“As I said, we're getting lots of work, the guys are working well and working hard. And sometimes in teams when you don't quite have that feeling going into a game that you can score goals, like we were this period last year, where that was plentiful.
“So, the team then goes in with a different energy and a different feeling, which then sparks everything off and brings that energy and that real game attitude that you want. When you're lacking that, then that's sometimes what you get.
“You're not taking the risk. Of course, we're missing some players, but in the meantime, when you feel that your top end of the pitch and your front player can get your goals, then you get the ball through nice and quickly and that speed of it.
“That wasn't quite there today, we were a bit safe and playing sideways or backwards.
“That's not our idea of football. I don't think you go into a game as a Celtic manager and say pass the ball sideways or backwards. There's never been a plan for any offensive team or club.
“So no, it definitely wasn't a plan.”
Rodgers looked as puzzled as any Celtic fan as to why the club would have waited so long to strengthen the squad when they had known not only what was required months in advance, but also that they would have three huge fixtures to deal with before the transfer window shuts.
And he now admits that the next 24 hours will have a huge bearing on where Celtic can set their ambitions this season.
“I think it's very, very clear what it is we need,” he said.
“Hopefully, in this next 24 hours, we can do that. Because, like I say, that was a hard watch.
“I feel it is [a huge 24 hours]. I feel it is. It's been so clear what the team has needed and what's required.
“I really hope that in this period we can do that. Celtic's DNA is around about our attacking intent, mentality and that bit of quality. You arrive into the final third and you're creating chances.
“As I said, 12 months ago, the dynamism in the team, the speed and the creativity, everything was there. You feel you can go into games and be really dynamic and creative.
“That's what we all want to see. So, when it's a wee bit like that today, it's not a great one.
“Listen, we've had a bit of time. We've had a long time to reinforce the squad. I'm hopeful that we can do that and get over the line. Otherwise, the game is about the quality of your player. You can take the game to different levels based on your players.
“But it's still my responsibility to try and maximise what I can get out of the players that will be here. Hopefully, we can get that competition in the team and reinvigorate some of the players that have been here for a long time.
“When you've been here for four years, like Reo (Hatate) and Daizen (Maeda) and these guys, they need competition.”
Adam Idah’s proposed move to Swansea still wasn’t resolved by the time Rodgers spoke after the match at Ibrox, with the manager, again, appearing bemused by the situation.
“I've got no explanation for it,” he said.
“It's not Adam's fault, but hopefully that will be cleared up [soon].
“In terms of all of that, you just have to narrow in your focus on what you can control. Of course, it's not been ideal for Adam and for the club, but we still have to look beyond that.
“I haven't spoken to anyone [from the board] since we left yesterday. I've been in the hotel preparing for the game and obviously nothing today.
“I'll pretty much get an update where we're at once we leave here.”
