CELTIC boss Brendan Rodgers has appealed to supporters to set aside plans for boycotts for their Europa League clash against Braga next Thursday.
The Hoops began their campaign with a solid 1-1 draw against Red Star Belgrade in Serbia on Wednesday.
Substitute Kelechi Iheanacho’s strike was cancelled out by Marko Arnautovic at the Marakana stadium in Belgrade, forcing Rodgers’ side to settle for a point.
Celtic’s next two European games are at home: first against Braga next Thursday, followed by Sturm Graz on matchday three.
Supporters are extremely unhappy at the club’s perceived lack of transfer activity this summer, which many believe led to their early Champions League exit to Kazakh outfit Kairat Almaty.
Chants of “sack the board” have been heard at recent games, while late-entry protests and banners have also been displayed, as Hoops fans show their frustrations.
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Despite the ongoing tensions, Rodgers is hopeful fans will rally behind the team in their quest for a first victory in this season’s competition.
When asked if he hopes supporters will put their protests on hold, he said: “I really hope so.
“The lift the supporters will give in these European games will be absolutely critical.
“Our fanbase can really push in this competition.
“I can’t tell the supporters what to do and how to feel, but if they can really help us as a team, that would be amazing.
“We will really feel the benefit of a packed-out Celtic Park.”
Former Hoops goalkeeper Pat Bonner, speaking on BBC Sportsound, echoed Rodgers’ sentiments, urging fans to get behind the team.
“It’s a special place, Celtic Park, when there’s a full house there and the atmosphere is up.
“Whether it’s the Champions League or Europa League, it makes a huge difference to the players.
“I hope the fans don’t boycott it. Think back to the Uefa Cup final, that was an extraordinary run for them, and everybody had a fantastic time.
“If they could do that again and get well into this competition, I think everybody would enjoy it, so let’s get the behind the team.”
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