Debut to forget: Joe Ledley says Celtic can bounce back from their defeat in Braga. Pic: © SNS Group
Joe Ledley made his competitive debut for Celtic in the 3-0 defeat to Braga and admits the poor performance wasn’t in the script. The Welsh midfielder is insistent that the tie is far from over though, and says Celtic can turn the tie around.
Ledley was one of four new faces in the starting line-up on Wednesday night after joining from Cardiff City under freedom of contract. He admits playing in Europe’s premier club competition was one of the attractions in signing for Celtic and is determined to enjoy more than two matches of Champions League football this season.
Looking back on the defeat, the Welshman says the new-look side just didn’t click and that they should have been better. He did insist though, that Braga’s opener was sft and a spot kick should never have been awarded.
"We didn't plan it to be that way and we are disappointed because we just didn't play well," Ledley told the Scottish Sun.
"It was one of those days and we conceded three sloppy goals from set-plays, but the first definitely wasn't a penalty. Maybe it had something to do with a number of new players being in the side, but it has to go down to the performance in the end. It wasn't good enough.
"Perhaps the new guys haven't gelled so well, but we did okay in the friendly games.”
BATTERED IN BRAGA
- Braga 3-0 Celtic
- Celtic aren't out yet, insists Lennon
- McGeady was injured, not dropped, for Braga match
Despite travelling back to Glasgow three goals down, Ledley says the tie is far from finished and has belief that a comeback is possible.
"We just have to go into the home game and try to get three or four goals. We have to pick ourselves up,” he said. "They are beatable. We just have to attack them from the off.
"The Champions League is one of the main reasons I came here and everyone wants to play in it. We know we can perform much better than that. It is only half-time, if you like, and anything can happen in the next 90 minutes.
"I believe in my ability. I had the chance to go to other clubs, but I came here to win trophies and play in the Champions League. I really hope to do that with Celtic."
