FORMER Celtic hero Stilian Petrov believes Ronny Deila’s players are not fit enough to make an impact in Europe.
The Bulgarian slammed his old club after witnessing their appalling performance in the 2-1 home defeat against Molde.
He said: “I think there is a lack of fitness – I just don’t think they are fit enough.
“I can assure Ronny Deila that their fitness is just not up there.
“After 60 minutes, they were legless and not sharp enough. When you are not fit enough, you can’t make forward runs, you can’t track back.
“So, you are in two minds. That makes things very difficult and I just don’t think this team is fit.
“First of all, they haven’t performed well and, secondly, lack of fitness will cost them games.”
Malmo coach Age Hariede, who guided the Swedes to a 4-3 Champions League qualifying victory that cost the Hoops at least £15million, made the same observation after his side lost 3-2 in Glasgow in the first leg.
He said: “At 2-1 for them, we had control of the game and they looked tired.”
Former midfield ace Petrov, who played for the Hoops between 1999 and 2006, was also amazed at Deila’s comments at the end.
He said: “A Celtic manager questioning the desire of his players? Now you have the opportunity to play for a club like this and the manager questions your desire?
“You should be ashamed.”
Petrov added: “I am not sure if the manager knows his best team.
“They were second best against Molde and that is not good enough.”
