Paul Lambert critiques Celtic, defends Luke McCowan after Champions League collapse

Paul Lambert, former Celtic captain, criticized the entire squad following their dramatic loss to LASK in the Champions League playoff on August 25, 2026. LASK overturned a 4-0 deficit to win 5-4, prompting Lambert to label Luke McCowan an easy scapegoat for the defeat. He emphasized the need for collective accountability among players, noting that warning signs had been apparent prior to the match, with LASK creating numerous chances. Lambert advised McCowan to avoid social media criticism as the team grapples with the disappointing outcome and aims for improvement moving forward.

• 8:35 AMYahoo Sports — “Luke McCowan is an easy scapegoat,” Paul Lambert