Celtic's Thrashing Serves As A Valuable Learning Experience For Shinnie
Celtic's Thrashing Serves As A Valuable Learning Experience For Shinnie
Celtic were thrashed 4-0 by Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday night, but for one player, the defeat could prove to be a valuable learning experience.
Andrew Shinnie, who made his first start for the Scottish champions in the match, was given a torrid time by Barca's star-studded attack.
The 22-year-old was caught out of position for the opening goal and was also at fault for the second. He was substituted at half-time, with Celtic trailing 3-0.
After the match, Shinnie admitted that he had been given a harsh lesson by Barcelona.
"It was a tough night," he said. "Barcelona are a world-class team and they showed us why.
"I made a couple of mistakes and I was punished for them. It's a learning experience and I'll take it on board.
"I'm still young and I'm still learning. I'll learn from this and I'll come back stronger."
Celtic manager Neil Lennon was disappointed with his team's performance, but he defended Shinnie.
"He's a young player and he's still learning," said Lennon. "He'll learn from this experience and he'll come back stronger.
"He's a good player and he's got a bright future ahead of him."
Shinnie will be hoping to put his Champions League nightmare behind him when Celtic face Dundee United in the Scottish Premiership on Sunday.