CELTIC made history this evening by not only topping their European group for the first time, but also by surpassing their group-stage points total record.

With 13 points and a game to spare, the Scottish champions have secured their place in the UEFA Europa League’s knockout round of 32 as table-toppers in style following tonight’s (Thursday) emphatic win over Rennes at Celtic Park.

Goals from Lewis Morgan, Ryan Christie and super-sub Mikey Johnston sealed the deal on the night. Here are five quick-fire talking points from another wonderful evening at Paradise...

CHRISTIE CLASS
Another big game, another stellar performance, another important goal from Ryan Christie. Opting for power over placement this time, the formidable midfielder doubled the Scottish champions’ lead on the stroke of half-time when he battered the ball past Rennes stopper, Edouard Mendy. From there, he controlled much of the play in the final third during the second period, before making way for Leigh Griffiths with 12 minutes of normal time remaining. Every bit worthy of his website Man of the Match display.

FORWARD THINKING
While not a natural striker, Lewis Morgan led the line for the Hoops with confidence from the outset. After linking well with Christie and Forrest in the opening stages, the attacker broke the deadlock on 22 minutes with a fine first-time strike, following a deft cut-back from the latter winger. The goal marked Morgan’s first competitive goal at Celtic Park, which he celebrated emphatically with his team-mates on the pitch and Paradise faithful in the stands.

HANDY MAN
Although not troubled an inordinate amount over 90 minutes, Fraser Forster produced a handful of fine saves as and when required. Moreover, the towering stopper communicated well with all four defenders in front of him, often coaching them on when to press, when to go long and when to look for the wide players ahead of them. Unfortunate not to record another clean sheet, but solid throughout the comfortable win.

TAYLOR MADE
Greg Taylor’s first European outing for Celtic was a success, as the tireless left-back helped out in defence and attack. His first-time through-ball for James Forrest on 22 minutes was delightful, which the winger pinged into the path of Morgan to open the scoring. From there, the 22-year-old defender continued to support Forrest further up the pitch, while communicating well with Christopher Jullien and Ajer in defence and Scott Brown in the middle of the pitch.

MIKEY DANCES, OLIVIER PRANCES!
As if mirroring their performance in Celtic’s Christmas advert, super sub Mikey Johnston returned to action with a well-taken goal – assisted by none other than Olivier Ntcham. Mikey dances, Olivier prances, indeed. No wonder Lenny is rejoicing again!

5 quick-fire talking points from emphatic Euro display at Paradise