Celtic face scrutiny after six defeats in 10 matches

Celtic have lost six of their past 10 matches in all competitions after a 2-1 home defeat by Falkirk, prompting former striker Chris Sutton to say the club and team are “in regression”.

The Scottish champions remain top of the Premiership, four points clear after 12 games, but the defeat followed a 2-2 draw with Dundee United and leaves them at risk of seeing rivals close the gap with games in hand.

Celtic dominated the match statistically, registering 24 shots to Falkirk’s six, nine on target to two and 14 corners to none. Former manager Ian McCall said injuries, age and overuse had affected several experienced Celtic players. Kris Boyd, a former Rangers striker, said he could not see what Celtic were trying to do.

Manager Martin O’Neill defended his recent team changes, saying Celtic had to rotate because of their busy schedule and European commitments. He also pointed out that the side were in a worse position at the same stage last season, when they were four points behind leaders Hearts. O’Neill returned to Celtic last season and led them to a league and cup double.

Celtic’s next match is at home to Beşiktaş in the Europa League. They have lost their opening three games in the competition, leaving them needing a win to keep their hopes of progressing alive. Their latest European defeat came against Celta Vigo, after which O’Neill said the side had to find a way to win in Europe.